Pakistan Faces Unrest Amid Balochistan Protests And Arrests

Balochistan is currently witnessing widespread protests following recent incidents involving law enforcement and civil society activists. The latest wave of unrest was sparked by an incident in Quetta, where security forces reportedly opened fire on demonstrators, resulting in the deaths of five individuals-including a 13-year-old child-and injuries to several others. The protestors were rallying peacefully at the time, according to eyewitness accounts and human rights advocates.

Among those arrested was Dr. Mahrang Baloch, a prominent member of the Baloch Yakjehti Committee (BYC), who was detained alongside several others. Dr. Baloch had previously posted on social media platform X (formerly Twitter), stating:“In Quetta, police opened indiscriminate fire on peaceful protesters, leaving many injured and one protester dead. This is how the state responds to peaceful demonstrations in Balochistan.”

Her arrest has triggered demonstrations across Balochistan and other regions of Pakistan, including strikes and shutdowns in cities such as Turbat, Dalbandin, Khuzdar, Washuk, Surab, Panjgur, Gwadar, Nushki, Kharan, Kalat, and Mastung. Mobile and internet services in Quetta have reportedly been suspended since March 20, with authorities citing security concerns.

International human rights organizations have expressed concern over the recent developments. The UN Special Rapporteur on Human Rights Defenders, Mary Lawlor, posted on X, stating she was“very concerned” about the reported arrests of Dr. Baloch and BYC protestors. Amnesty International and Front Line Defenders also issued statements urging the government of Pakistan to release the detained activists and refrain from criminalizing peaceful dissent. The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) called on authorities to ensure restraint and safeguard the right to protest.

Reports suggest that Bebarg Zehri, another BYC member, and his brother were taken from their residence in the early hours of March 20. Civil society organizations have labeled such arrests as part of a broader crackdown on dissent in the region.

Local political parties and legal bodies, including the Balochistan Bar Council and members of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), have condemned the arrests and called for the immediate release of those detained, including women, children, and students. Former National Assembly Deputy Speaker Qasim Suri and BNP-Mengal leader Akhtar Mengal also voiced their concerns, citing longstanding grievances and systemic issues affecting the region.

At an event held at the Geneva Press Club, Naseem Baloch, Chairman of the Baloch National Movement (BNM), addressed the Pashtun Tahafuz Movement (PTM), calling for solidarity among Pakistan's ethnic minorities. PTM leader Manzoor Pashteen also expressed support for the Baloch community in an online address, emphasizing the need for collective advocacy to address human rights violations and socio-economic marginalization.

Observers note a growing alignment between Baloch and Pashtun groups in response to what they perceive as disproportionate measures by state authorities. Both groups have raised concerns about issues such as enforced disappearances, suppression of political activism, and lack of regional autonomy.

The Balochistan Liberation Charter, cited by some activists, frames the current situation as part of a democratic struggle for greater rights and recognition. Meanwhile, several political figures in Pakistan, including Maulana Fazlur Rehman and others, have raised concerns over the diminishing presence of the state in certain parts of Balochistan and the tribal regions of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

While the Pakistani military leadership has not issued direct responses to all claims, reports suggest that enhanced legal powers are being sought to manage what is described as growing unrest and security challenges. Critics caution that a continued reliance on force may escalate tensions, rather than resolve long-standing issues in the affected regions.

The situation remains fluid, with national and international observers closely monitoring developments amid calls for dialogue, accountability, and protection of civil liberties.

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