Baloch National Movement (BNM) Chairman Naseem Baloch expressed concern over the recent arrest of Pakistani human rights lawyers Imaan Zainab Mazari-Hazir and Hadi Ali Chatta. The lawyers were sentenced to a total of 17 years in prison for social media-related charges. Naseem described this as an assault on truth and the legal profession in Pakistan.
In an open letter to the global community, Naseem highlighted the prevalent human rights abuses in Balochistan, where enforced disappearances and extrajudicial killings are common. He emphasized that speaking against state crimes in Pakistan often leads to severe repercussions, including arbitrary detentions and violence to enforce silence.
Imaan Zainab Mazari, known for advocating for victims of enforced disappearances, faced repercussions for challenging the actions of Pakistan’s military and intelligence agencies. Similarly, Hadi Ali Chatta, a human rights defender, was arrested for standing against injustices by Pakistani authorities. Naseem underscored the risks faced by those who resist state oppression, including lawyers who uphold legal rights.
Naseem urged the global community to recognize the systematic human rights violations in Pakistan, particularly in regions like Balochistan. He criticized the international silence on these issues, emphasizing that Pakistan’s actions violate international human rights treaties. Naseem called for solidarity with those facing repression and emphasized the need to address the ongoing suppression of dissent in the country.
