The Baloch Yakjehti Committee (BYC) has expressed worry about the deteriorating health and alleged unlawful detention of its leader, Mahrang Baloch. Mahrang’s health condition has worsened significantly during her custody in the past six months, with her requests for medical attention reportedly ignored by jail authorities. Despite a doctor’s recommendation for medical tests, she has not been transferred to a hospital for examinations.
On February 18, due to a deterioration in her health, Mahrang was taken to Sheikh Zayed Hospital in Lahore for evaluation. Doctors at the hospital identified a serious spinal condition, advising rest and proper medical care. The BYC criticized the court for denying her bail without valid legal reasons and continuing a prolonged trial without substantial charges.
The BYC highlighted that Mahrang’s detention, along with other BYC leaders, was based on fabricated FIRs, with no credible evidence presented. They demanded immediate medical treatment for Mahrang and the release of all unlawfully detained leaders. The organization condemned the prolonged imprisonment of Mahrang and other leaders, citing a pattern of legal manipulation by Pakistani authorities.
Reiterating that advocating for human rights is not a crime, the BYC emphasized that peaceful political activities should not be equated with terrorism. They raised concerns about the delay in bail proceedings, questioning the independence of judicial processes in politically sensitive cases and the democratic space in the country.
