HumanRights – Baloch Rights Group Rejects Allegations, Calls Them Politically Driven
HumanRights – The Baloch Yakjehti Committee (BYC) on Thursday dismissed what it called unfounded and politically motivated accusations directed at both the organisation and its central leader, Sabiha Baloch. The group reiterated that its activities have consistently remained peaceful, focused on raising awareness about human rights issues in Balochistan.
Dispute Over Press Conference Claims
The controversy follows a press briefing held a day earlier by Balochistan Chief Minister Sarfaraz Bugti and senior police officials, including the provincial Inspector General. During the briefing, a woman identified as Farzana Zehri was presented before the media. According to officials, she allegedly accused the BYC and its leadership of links with militant networks and involvement in training for suicide attacks.
However, the BYC strongly contested these claims, pointing out that Farzana Zehri had reportedly been missing since December 2025 after being taken from Khuzdar district. The group questioned the circumstances under which she reappeared after more than three months without any public or legal record of her whereabouts.
Concerns Over Due Process and Legality
Raising legal and constitutional concerns, the organisation argued that Zehri’s prolonged absence without court presentation or formal detention raises serious questions. The BYC maintained that any statement made under such conditions lacks credibility and cannot be considered reliable.
According to the group, the situation highlights broader concerns about due process, including why she was not produced before a court and why her detention was not officially acknowledged. The organisation suggested that these gaps undermine the legitimacy of the claims made during the press conference.
Allegations of Propaganda and Intimidation
The BYC further alleged that state institutions are using media narratives and staged appearances to weaken human rights movements in the region. It claimed that such actions are designed to justify arrests of activists while simultaneously damaging the reputation of organisations advocating for justice.
The group insisted that no evidence has been presented to substantiate the allegations against Sabiha Baloch or the BYC. It described the accusations as an attempt to divert attention from ongoing human rights concerns in Balochistan.
Demand for Evidence or Public Apology
In response to the situation, the BYC called on Chief Minister Sarfaraz Bugti and other authorities to either provide verifiable proof supporting their claims or issue a public apology for what it described as defamation. The organisation reaffirmed its commitment to non-violent activism, stating that it would continue to speak out despite mounting pressure.
Wider Reaction From Baloch Leadership
The issue has also drawn attention from other Baloch leaders. Naseem Baloch, chairman of the Baloch National Movement (BNM), criticised the handling of the case. Sharing footage from the press conference on social media platform X, he claimed that Farzana Zehri’s statement appeared to have been made under coercion.
He described the situation as deeply concerning, arguing that individuals who have reportedly experienced enforced disappearance should not be used to make public accusations. According to him, such practices represent a serious violation of human rights and raise questions about the treatment of detainees.
Pattern of Alleged Human Rights Violations
Naseem Baloch further suggested that the case reflects a broader pattern in the region, where enforced disappearances are allegedly used not only to silence individuals but also to create fear among activists. He warned that such tactics could erode trust within communities and weaken peaceful movements working for accountability and justice.
Both the BYC and other Baloch leaders have emphasized that their efforts remain rooted in non-violence and lawful advocacy. They argue that addressing human rights concerns through dialogue and transparency is essential for long-term stability in the region.