The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) has voiced serious concern over the ongoing human rights crisis in Balochistan. In a newly released fact-finding report, the commission calls for renewed political dialogue and respect for human rights to restore trust and resolve the region’s longstanding conflict.
The report highlights that democratic freedoms in Balochistan are increasingly restricted, and provincial autonomy is weakening. It also points out a rising culture of impunity, warning that these factors are contributing to public alienation and growing political instability.
HRCP leadership, including Chairperson Asad Iqbal Butt and Co-Chairperson Munizae Jahangir, presented the findings in Islamabad alongside prominent human rights advocates. One of the main concerns raised was the issue of enforced disappearances, which the HRCP labeled as a crime against humanity under international human rights law. The commission has demanded independent investigations into these allegations.
The report does not condone militant attacks targeting civilians, including non-Baloch settlers, urging that those responsible should be prosecuted. However, it expresses deep alarm over the approval of the Anti-Terrorism (Balochistan Amendment) Act 2025, which allows for detentions of up to 90 days. The HRCP has called on the government to withdraw this legislation and ensure that all counterterrorism measures align with Pakistan’s human rights obligations.
Election rigging and the political marginalization of nationalist parties have damaged public confidence in the democratic system, according to the HRCP. The commission recommends that the state ensures transparency, justice, and accountability by investigating credible allegations of electoral fraud and making administrative structures less politicized, in order to reduce political alienation.
The report also proposes the creation of a unified civilian police force with sufficient resources and community-based, rights-focused policing methods. This, it argues, would reduce the current reliance on paramilitary and military agencies. The HRCP urges the government to restore constitutional safeguards established under the 18th Amendment and respect provincial autonomy in the management of natural resources.
The commission further recommends reviewing controversial projects such as Sandak and recent amendments to the Balochistan Mines and Minerals Act to guarantee local consultation and fair distribution of benefits.
The HRCP warns that without transparent, inclusive, and human rights-based solutions, Balochistan’s political and security situation is likely to further deteriorate.
