The Baloch Yakjehti Committee (BYC) has strongly criticized the Pakistani authorities for their approach to press conferences in Balochistan, denouncing the portrayal of detainees, especially women, as confessing to criminal acts. The BYC expressed concerns about potential violations of human rights standards, emphasizing the dehumanization of Baloch women in these staged events. In a report titled “Staged Press Conferences and Confessional Narratives in Balochistan,” the BYC highlighted the alleged normalization of enforced disappearances and media trials to justify state violence.
The BYC accused Pakistani state entities of promoting enforced disappearances, custodial torture, and media trials to shape official narratives and propaganda. The organization pointed out the additional challenges faced by women in such situations, including social stigma and family repercussions. By showcasing victims without consent, the authorities were criticized for disrespecting Baloch women and undermining their dignity. The report documented cases where detainees were held without due legal process and later coerced into making confessional statements in public forums.
According to the BYC, these practices not only raise concerns about due process and presumption of innocence but also serve as a tool to target political figures and activists. The organization suggested that these tactics aim to instill fear and misinformation, particularly targeting Baloch women leaders and activists to suppress peaceful resistance. The BYC called upon international human rights bodies and organizations like Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch to address the situation in Balochistan and shed light on the mistreatment of women by Pakistani authorities.
