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In a pivotal development, the caretaker federal government declared on Monday that all 290 Baloch protestors, detained during a crackdown on demonstrations in Islamabad, have been released. This decision comes in response to the discussions held by the committee established by Caretaker Prime Minister Anwaarul Haq Kakar.
The protestors were initially taken into custody during a demonstration advocating an end to enforced disappearances and extrajudicial killings. The release of the arrested individuals aligns with the directives of the honorable court, as stated by an interior ministry spokesperson in a press release.
While emphasizing the citizens’ right to peaceful protest, the spokesperson underscored that no one should take the law into their own hands. The statement also affirmed the commitment to ensuring the security of the Capital’s Red Zone, housing constitutional institutions and the Diplomatic Enclave, at all costs.
In light of the recent events, a special assistance center has been established by the Islamabad Police, accessible via telephone numbers 0519001534 and 03459600622 or the email address [email protected].
The Baloch Yakjehti Committee (BYC), the primary organizer of the lengthy march, had issued a three-day ultimatum to the authorities. Their demands included the dismissal of cases against students and activists, along with the release of all protesters.
Commencing in Turbat on December 6 in response to the alleged extrajudicial killing of a Baloch youth, the march reached the federal capital on Wednesday. The Islamabad police’s use of force to disperse and detain the demonstrators drew widespread condemnation from human rights organizations, politicians, the Islamabad High Court (IHC), and even the highest offices, including President Dr. Arif Alvi and PM Kakar.
The release of the Baloch protestors comes amidst heightened concerns and calls for dialogue and resolution, echoing the broader need for addressing the grievances that led to the protests. The government’s actions will likely be closely monitored by civil society, human rights advocates, and the international community as efforts to foster a peaceful resolution to the Baloch grievances continue.
