Tag: MahrangBaloch

Life Sentence Handed to Activist in Gwadar Rally Case A Pakistani anti enforced disappearance campaigner, Mahrang Baloch, has been sentenced to life in prison in connection with the killing of a paramilitary soldier during a protest in 2024. She led the Balochistan Unity Committee and was convicted alongside fellow activist Sibghatullah. The court also imposed a fine of 200,000 Pakistani rupees, payable to the victim’s family. What Happened at the Gwadar Protest Prosecutors say the case relates to a rally held in Gwadar where tensions escalated between protesters and security forces. Authorities claim Mahrang Baloch delivered a highly charged speech that encouraged the crowd. According to a security official, a group of protesters attacked a vehicle carrying paramilitary personnel with sticks and stones. During the chaos, soldier Shabbir Ahmed became separated from his unit and was killed. The anti terrorism court in Quetta ruled that both activists were part of an unlawful gathering and shared responsibility for the incident. Trial Controversy and Defence Response The case has sparked strong criticism from human rights groups. The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan urged a full review of the judgment and raised concerns about fairness in the trial process. Mahrang Baloch and Sibghatullah boycotted the proceedings. Their legal team said they were denied proper legal rights and could not cross examine witnesses in a fair manner. They also claimed key testimonies were given through video link without full transparency. Supporters described the court as unfair and said the process lacked openness. On the other hand, a spokesperson for the Balochistan government said the prosecution had strong evidence and insisted the case was not politically motivated. Background of Mahrang Baloch Mahrang Baloch is widely known for her activism against enforced disappearances in Balochistan, a region affected by long standing unrest. Her activism began after her father was allegedly detained by security personnel in 2009 and later found dead with signs of torture. In 2023, she led a long march covering about 1,000 miles toward Islamabad, demanding justice for missing persons and their families. She was listed among influential global women in 2024 for her human rights work. Her organisation continues to reject claims of links with armed groups and says it focuses on peaceful rights based advocacy.
PakistanPolitics

Balochistan Activist Mahrang Baloch Sentenced to Life in Prison Over Gwadar Rally Violence Case

Life Sentence Handed to Activist in Gwadar Rally Case A Pakistani anti…

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