Families in Balochistan, Pakistan are protesting the disappearance of four relatives – two women and two men – allegedly taken by Pakistani forces. The individuals have been identified as Fareed Ijaz, Mujahid Dilwash, Hani Dilwash, and Hair-Nisa Wahid, according to the Baloch Yakjehti Committee (BYC), a human rights body.
Protest in Kech District
The families began a peaceful protest in Tejaban village, Kech district, demanding the safe return of their loved ones. Despite their efforts, the BYC reports that the families’ concerns are being ignored and no information regarding the whereabouts of those missing has been provided. The families have stated they will continue their protest until all four individuals are recovered.
Wider Concerns About Enforced Disappearances
The protest comes amid broader concerns about enforced disappearances in Balochistan. The BYC has condemned the practice, stating it has impacted countless families. The organization is currently conducting a 5-day campaign focused on the increasing number of Baloch women who have disappeared, seeking to raise awareness and demand accountability.
The Baloch Women Forum (BWF) has highlighted what it describes as a growing trend of normalizing the abduction of Baloch women in recent months. The BWF asserts this is a deliberate tactic intended to inflict emotional harm on the community and has called for immediate international intervention.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who are the individuals who have disappeared?
The individuals who have disappeared are Fareed Ijaz, Mujahid Dilwash, Hani Dilwash, and Hair-Nisa Wahid.
Where is the protest taking place?
The protest is taking place in Tejaban village, in the Kech district of Balochistan.
What is the Baloch Women Forum’s position on the disappearances?
The Baloch Women Forum (BWF) states that over the last few months, Pakistan has gradually worked to shape a psyche of normalisation around the abduction of Baloch women, which it described as a deliberate attempt to hurt the societal sentiments and has called for international intervention.
What role might international pressure play in addressing the concerns raised by the families and advocacy groups?
