Disappearances – Baloch Activist Raises Alarm Over Missing Poet in Karachi

Disappearances –  Fresh concerns over alleged enforced disappearances in Pakistan have emerged after Baloch activist Sammi Deen Baloch publicly criticized authorities regarding the reported disappearance of Baloch poet Habiba Pir Jan. According to the activist, the writer was taken into custody in Karachi on May 25 and has not been seen since, prompting renewed calls for accountability and transparency.

Allegations Surrounding Habiba Pir Jan’s Detention

In a statement shared through social media, Sammi Deen Baloch claimed that Habiba Pir Jan was detained by security personnel and subsequently went missing. She stated that this was not the first time the poet had reportedly faced such circumstances. The activist noted that Habiba had previously been detained in 2022 and was released roughly a week later.

The latest incident, she argued, has intensified fears among Baloch communities that individuals expressing cultural, literary, or social views may be vulnerable to arbitrary actions.

Claims of a Wider Pattern

Sammi Deen Baloch described the case as part of what she called a broader trend involving Baloch women who have allegedly disappeared under similar conditions. She asserted that some women who were later located appeared in media interviews after their detention, while others have yet to be traced.

According to her, these cases have generated growing concern among families and rights advocates who continue to seek information about missing relatives.

Reference to Earlier Missing Persons Cases

The activist also highlighted the case of Mah Jabeen, whom she said remains unaccounted for. She stated that family members are still waiting for official information regarding her whereabouts and wellbeing.

Rights groups and family members have repeatedly raised concerns over unresolved disappearance cases, urging authorities to provide clear updates and ensure legal safeguards for those taken into custody.

Social Media Debate and Official Narrative

Sammi Deen Baloch further alleged that several social media accounts supportive of state institutions initially portrayed Habiba Pir Jan’s detention as a major security success. However, she claimed that those posts were later removed and replaced with descriptions portraying the poet as a wanted individual.

She also alleged that a reward was subsequently announced in connection with Habiba, further fueling debate and controversy surrounding the circumstances of her disappearance.

Family Reports Harassment

Another issue raised by the activist involved the treatment of Habiba’s relatives. She claimed that officials repeatedly visited the family residence and seized mobile phones belonging to household members.

According to her statement, family members have faced ongoing pressure and intimidation while attempting to obtain information about the poet’s condition and location.

Calls for International Attention

Describing the situation as a serious human rights concern, Sammi Deen Baloch appealed to both domestic and international human rights organizations to become involved. She urged independent efforts to determine Habiba Pir Jan’s whereabouts and called for measures to prevent future cases of alleged enforced disappearances.

The activist emphasized the need for transparency, legal accountability, and protection of fundamental rights, arguing that affected families deserve clear answers regarding missing loved ones. As concerns continue to grow, rights advocates are expected to keep pressing for information and an impartial review of the allegations surrounding the case.