Baloch activists, political leaders, and human rights advocates expressed worries about the situation in Balochistan at the Asma Jahangir Conference in Lahore. The Baloch Yakjehti Committee’s central member, Sammi Deen Baloch, engaged with various stakeholders during the conference, emphasizing critical human rights issues faced by the Baloch people. Discussions at the event highlighted challenges such as enforced disappearances and limitations on political representation in the region.
At the conference, Sammi Deen Baloch interacted with United Nations officials, including representatives focusing on peaceful assembly rights, violence against women, and human rights defenders. She highlighted concerns about restrictions on peaceful assembly and freedom of expression in Balochistan, citing instances of alleged violence against women and minors, enforced disappearances, and arbitrary arrests. The BYC reported that UN officials acknowledged these human rights violations and pledged to address them in relevant UN forums.
During the conference, Balochistan National Party leader Sardar Akhtar Mengal addressed the security dynamics in Balochistan, noting the contrasting perceptions of security forces and Baloch fighters among residents. He underscored the need for urgent and sustainable solutions to address the security situation effectively. Former Balochistan chief minister Abdul Malik Baloch also expressed alarm over the high number of missing persons in the region, urging immediate action and inclusive political dialogue to resolve the pressing issues.
Protests erupted at the conference following remarks by Pakistan’s former interior minister, Rana Sanaullah, regarding Balochistan and enforced disappearances. Participants objected to Sanaullah’s comments, which seemed to justify enforced disappearances in the context of militancy. This led to a walkout by numerous attendees, including social activist Sheema Kermani and Sammi Deen Baloch.
