HumanRights – Rights Concerns Intensify in Nushki and Kharan Districts

HumanRights – The human rights situation in parts of Balochistan has come under renewed scrutiny following fresh allegations of enforced disappearances, civilian harm, and prolonged restrictions in Nushki and Kharan districts.

Allegations of Prolonged Restrictions and Disruptions

The Baloch Yakjehti Committee (BYC) has claimed that residents of Nushki and Kharan faced severe disruptions throughout February 2026. In a statement shared on X, the group alleged that communities remained largely isolated for eleven consecutive days, with routine life coming to a standstill.

According to the organization, access to healthcare services, employment opportunities, and social interaction was significantly restricted during this period. While certain limitations were reportedly eased later, daily movement and activities were said to remain confined to only a few hours.

Reports of Enforced Disappearances and Detentions

A central concern raised by BYC relates to a reported surge in enforced disappearance cases. The group claimed that in Nushki alone, the number of individuals allegedly taken into custody without disclosure of their whereabouts reached unprecedented levels during February, potentially running into the hundreds.

In neighboring Kharan district, BYC alleged that more than 50 individuals were subjected to similar actions. Families of those reportedly detained were said to have received no formal information regarding legal status or location of their relatives.

The organization further alleged that relatives were discouraged from speaking publicly about the cases. Some families were reportedly warned against pursuing information, while others were allegedly told that raising concerns could negatively affect the chances of their loved ones’ release.

Curfews and Communication Blackouts

The statement also described the sudden imposition of curfews across both districts. These restrictions, according to BYC, disrupted access to essential services including medical care and education. Movement controls were reportedly strict, limiting travel within and between affected areas.

Extended internet shutdowns were also highlighted as a major issue. BYC claimed that prolonged suspension of online services curtailed freedom of expression and restricted residents’ ability to access information or communicate with others outside the region.

In several instances, families in Kharan were allegedly summoned by security personnel and instructed to present their sons. Upon appearing, the young men were reportedly taken into custody and transferred to undisclosed locations. The group suggested that due to fear and mobility constraints, numerous incidents may not have been formally documented.

Civilian Casualties Reported During February

Beyond disappearances and detentions, BYC alleged that more than 20 individuals, including women and minors, were either killed or injured during incidents involving direct firing over the course of the month.

Among those reported dead were Atta Ullah, identified as a resident of Kili Qaziabad; Shahzaib Baloch, son of Zafar Ullah, also from Kili Qaziabad; and Hassan Basri from Kili Jamalabad.

The group further stated that Nisa Khatoon, wife of Abdul Bari and a resident of Badal Karaiz, and Ameen Ullah, son of Ameer Bakhsh from Kili Badal Karaiz, were injured in an alleged firing incident on February 13, 2026.

Call for Transparency and Accountability

BYC has urged authorities to clarify the status of the detained individuals and ensure due legal process. The organization called for transparency in security operations and restoration of communication services in the affected districts.

As of now, there has been no official response publicly addressing the specific allegations outlined by the group. The claims, if independently verified, would raise significant concerns regarding human rights conditions and governance in the region.

The situation in Nushki and Kharan continues to draw attention from civil society observers monitoring developments in Balochistan, particularly concerning enforced disappearances, civilian safety, and access to fundamental freedoms.