Protests Over ‘Disappearances’: Zaheer Baloch Released After 5-Day Vanishing Act

Protests Over 'Disappearances': Zaheer Baloch Released After 5-Day Vanishing Act

VoM News Desk | December 28, 2023 | 02:22 PM IST | Asia, Pakistan News, World | Follow on Google News

Protests Over ‘Disappearances’: Zaheer Baloch Released After 5-Day Vanishing Act/X@BYCislamabad

Protests Over ‘Disappearances’: Zaheer Baloch Released After 5-Day Vanishing Act

Zaheer Baloch, a PhD student and a participant in the protests against ‘enforced disappearances’ and extrajudicial killings, has finally been released by Islamabad police after being missing for five days.

This comes amid ongoing demonstrations against Pakistani forces. He was arrested during a protest demanding entry to Islamabad for the “Long March Against Baloch Genocide”.

Initially, authorities claimed ignorance about his whereabouts. However, the Islamabad High Court later revealed that he was being held in Adiala jail.

The release of Zaheer Baloch was celebrated by the Baloch Yakjehti Committee, though concerns remain as 34 other students are still missing.

Dr. Mahrang Baloch, a key figure in the protests, emphasized their cause against ‘enforced disappearances’ and extrajudicial killings.

She clarified their readiness for negotiation but stood firm against manipulation. She highlighted the movement’s growth and condemned violent measures used by authorities to suppress their demonstrations, including seizing loudspeakers at night.

Describing his detention, Zaheer Baloch recounted inhumane conditions in jail, citing overcrowding, dehumanization, and denial of legal rights.

Despite seeking legal representation, he claimed to be assaulted and deprived of contacting his lawyers or family.

The protests began in Turbat after an alleged extrajudicial killing by the Counter Terrorism Department (CTD) and escalated into a nationwide movement.

The crackdown by Islamabad police on peaceful protests resulted in over 200 arrests, drawing widespread condemnation from national and international rights organizations.

Protesters continue to demand the release of detainees, warning of further action if their demands are not met.

The movement, originally a march against Baloch Genocide, transformed into a sit-in outside the Islamabad National Press Club, amplifying their voice against ‘disappearances’ and human rights violations.

VoM News Desk

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