An anti-terrorism court (ATC) in Quetta has granted police a 15-day extension in the physical remand of Dr. Mahrang Baloch, leader of the Baloch Yakjehti Committee (BYC), and several other activists. The group faces charges under the Anti-Terrorism Act and Pakistan Penal Code, including terrorism, murder, incitement to violence, and damaging public property. Authorities accuse them of involvement in violent clashes that left three dead and 15 police officers injured, as well as storming Quetta’s Civil Hospital to forcibly retrieve bodies of alleged attackers.
Details of the Allegations
The FIRs against the activists claim they instigated riots, assisted in shooting at police and civilians, and led a mob of 100-150 people to seize bodies from the hospital morgue. These bodies were reportedly linked to the Jaffer Express train bombing. The court had previously granted a 10-day remand on July 8, following their initial three-month detention under the Maintenance of Public Order (MPO) Ordinance.
Legal Proceedings and Civil Society Backlash
During the hearing, six activists, including Gulzadi Baloch and Sibghatullah Shahji, were presented before ATC Judge Muhammad Ali Mubeen, who approved the extended remand. Human rights organizations and over 100 civil society members have condemned the arrests, urging Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to intervene. In a joint letter, they called the detentions an “attempt to suppress demands for ending enforced disappearances” in Balochistan.
Growing Tensions in Balochistan
The case highlights escalating tensions between Baloch rights activists and state authorities. While officials insist the legal process is being followed, critics argue the charges are politically motivated to curb dissent.