The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) has expressed deep concern over the ongoing human rights crisis in Balochistan, urging the government to restore public trust and resolve conflicts through political dialogue and strict adherence to human rights norms. In a newly released fact-finding report, the HRCP highlights eroding democratic freedoms, weakened provincial autonomy, and an alarming disregard for the rule of law, all of which are fueling public alienation and political instability in the province.
At a press conference in Islamabad, HRCP Chairperson Asad Iqbal Butt, Co-Chairperson Munizae Jahangir, Farhatullah Babar, Nasreen Azhar, and other members presented the findings. The report strongly condemned enforced disappearances, calling them crimes against humanity under international law, and called for independent investigations into all such allegations.
The HRCP also addressed recent militant attacks targeting both settlers and civilians, emphasizing that such incidents cannot be justified and that perpetrators must be brought to justice. However, the commission expressed grave concerns over the passage of the Counter-Terrorism (Balochistan Amendment) Act 2025, which allows detention for up to 90 days, and called for its repeal. The commission stressed that all counter-terrorism measures must align with Pakistan’s human rights obligations.
The report noted that electoral manipulation and the political marginalization of nationalist parties have severely damaged public trust in the democratic system. The HRCP recommended that the state ensure transparency, justice, and accountability by investigating credible allegations of rigging and depoliticizing administrative structures in order to reduce political alienation.
To improve security and human rights, the commission proposed establishing a unified, community-based police force equipped with proper resources and training to reduce excessive reliance on paramilitary and military institutions. The HRCP further called on the government to restore constitutional protections granted to the province under the 18th Amendment and respect provincial autonomy, especially regarding the management of natural resources.
The report also urged a review of controversial projects such as Saindak and recent amendments to the Balochistan Mines and Minerals Act, recommending that local communities be properly consulted and benefits distributed fairly.
The HRCP warned that unless the state immediately adopts a transparent, inclusive, and human rights-oriented political approach, the political and security situation in Balochistan will continue to deteriorate.
