Balochistan Records Deadliest Month in Six Years Amid Surge in Violence

The Pakistan Institute for Conflict and Security Studies (PICSS) reported that August has been the most violent month in Balochistan in the past six years, with a significant increase in anti-government violence and a high number of fatalities. The situation remains volatile with ongoing human rights abuses.

August has been recorded as the deadliest month in Balochistan in the past six years, as reported by the Pakistan Institute for Conflict and Security Studies (PICSS). The think tank highlighted a 'dangerous increase' in anti-government violence, with the region experiencing the highest number of deaths in Pakistan during this period.

According to the PICSS report released on Monday, a total of 254 people were killed across Pakistan in August, including 92 civilians, 108 militants, and 54 armed soldiers. The report also noted 150 injuries, with 88 being civilians. Militant attacks accounted for 175 fatalities, marking August as the most violent month since July 2018.

Reports from Baloch human rights organizations indicated that Quetta, Kech, Awaran, and Khuzdar had the highest numbers of enforced disappearances. The region faces significant challenges, including militant attacks, extrajudicial killings, and severe human rights violations. The ongoing conflict between separatist groups and the government has led to a volatile security environment, characterized by restricted freedom of expression and economic marginalization.

(With inputs from agencies.)