Balochistan Faces Deadliest Month in Six Years Amid Surge in Violence and Human Rights Abuses

The Pakistan Institute for Conflict and Security Studies (PICSS) reports August as the most violent month in Balochistan in the last six years. At least 254 people were killed across Pakistan, with Balochistan facing the highest fatalities. The province also reported numerous enforced disappearances and escalating unrest.

The Pakistan Institute for Conflict and Security Studies (PICSS), based in Islamabad, has confirmed that August was Balochistan's most violent month in the past six years. An alarming rise in anti-government attacks marked August as the most turbulent period within this timeframe, with Balochistan recording the highest fatalities.

PICSS's latest report, released Monday, reveals that 254 individuals were killed across Pakistan in August, including 92 civilians, 108 militants, and 54 armed soldiers. Additionally, 150 people suffered injuries, 88 of whom were civilians. The majority of these deaths resulted from 83 militant attacks, claiming 175 lives overall—92 civilians, 47 security personnel, and 36 militants. The month has been the deadliest since July 2018.

Other Baloch human rights organizations report that Quetta, Kech, Awaran, and Khuzdar saw the highest incidents of enforced disappearances, with 10, eight, seven, and six incidents respectively. Balochistan faces severe challenges, including frequent militant attacks and ongoing extrajudicial killings. Despite both international and local efforts, the region remains plagued by human rights violations and a deteriorating security situation.

Persistent conflict between separatist groups and the government has led to brutal violence and extensive military operations. Enforced disappearances are a grave concern, with many being detained without charges. Freedom of expression is heavily restricted, with journalists and activists under constant threat. Despite its resource richness, Balochistan suffers from economic marginalization, fueling local grievances. The conflict has also led to significant displacement, both internally and across borders. The lack of legal recourse and accountability for human rights abuses worsens the situation, depicting a complex and dire scenario. (ANI)

(With inputs from agencies.)