Paank Condemns Enforced Disappearance of Journalist in Balochistan

Paank, the Baloch National Movement's human rights wing, has condemned journalist Muhammad Usman's enforced disappearance in Balochistan by Pakistani authorities. This event highlights ongoing rights violations and suppression of free expression in the region. Paank urges international intervention to address this crisis and secure the release of those abducted.

The human rights department of the Baloch National Movement, known as Paank, has issued a strong condemnation against the enforced disappearance of journalist Muhammad Usman in Balochistan. Usman, a notable figure in journalism, was taken into custody by Pakistani authorities at Bismillah Market in Quetta, with his current situation remaining uncertain. His family is deeply anxious over his safety and well-being.

In a statement on X, Paank highlighted, "His father confirmed his arrest, indicating that Usman was subjected to an enforced disappearance post-detention, a tactic increasingly used to silence voices without accountability." Recently, there has been a worrying surge in forced disappearances of journalists, human rights activists, scholars, doctors, and other key professionals across Balochistan.

This string of abductions underscores a systemic endeavor by Pakistani authorities to muzzle the Baloch nation's freedom of expression and curb access to autonomous perspectives. Paank firmly declared, "We denounce this act vehemently and urge the Pakistani government to reveal Muhammad Usman's location, assure his safety, and protect his basic rights. The persistent campaign of disappearances must be halted, with perpetrators brought to justice in line with international human rights norms."

Paank is appealing to the international community, human rights organizations, and advocates for press freedom to urgently tackle this burgeoning crisis and demand the immediate release of all individuals subjected to enforced disappearances in Balochistan. The region has long been plagued by severe human rights abuses under Pakistani governance, with reports of killings, sexual violence, and forced relocation. Despite Balochistan's rich natural resources, local populations seldom see their benefits. There are widespread constraints on free speech, assembly, and movement, and dissent is harshly repressed.

Although the Baloch people continue to suffer greatly, global attention to their plight has been scant. Efforts to combat these abuses have been minimal, leaving the Baloch community exposed and their fundamental rights repeatedly violated without significant international intervention or assistance.

(With inputs from agencies.)