A human rights body in Balochistan has expressed serious worries about the increasing cases of enforced disappearances in the region. The Baloch Yakjehti Committee highlighted a specific incident where 12 women, including minors and pregnant women, were forcibly disappeared by Pakistan’s security forces and intelligence agencies in 2025. The report emphasized the case of Hani Baloch, an eight-month pregnant woman, and her family members who were taken from Kech district in Balochistan between December 19 and 23, 2025.
The report pointed out a disturbing trend in Balochistan where enforced disappearances, previously targeting mainly men, are now being used against women, including pregnant women. The enforced disappearance of a pregnant woman is considered a severe violation of human rights, endangering both the woman and her unborn child. This act infringes on fundamental rights such as life, health, dignity, liberty, and legal protection, as stated by the BYC.
The report highlighted that despite the time passed, the four individuals, including Hani Baloch, remain missing, with no acknowledgment from Pakistani authorities regarding their detention or whereabouts. This situation indicates a clear case of enforced disappearance and suggests a pattern of targeted punishment against families. The practice of collective punishment, as seen in this case, is condemned under international human rights law.
The Baloch Yakjehti Committee has called on the United Nations human rights mechanisms to pressure the Government of Pakistan for the immediate release of Hani Baloch and her family members. They also urged for disclosure of their locations, legal status, and health conditions. Additionally, the global community is urged to hold the Pakistani government and its security forces accountable for the enforced disappearance of Hani Baloch and her family members, particularly focusing on the impact on women and pregnant women.
