HRCB Condemns Military Operation Targeting Civilians in Kharan
The Human Rights Council of Balochistan strongly condemns the military operation carried out by Pakistani forces in the Lijjay area of Kharan, where civilians were reportedly injured, a local resident was forcibly disappeared, homes were damaged, and shops were looted.
According to reports, mortar shelling struck a residential area, seriously injuring two women, a man, and a one-year-old child, identified as Bibi Zakira, Bibi Shafiqa, Hafiz Tahir, and Nadia. They were later reportedly denied transportation for urgent medical care.
We are further alarmed by the reported enforced disappearance of local doctor Shah Jahan, who was allegedly taken to an undisclosed location, while his home was reportedly set on fire. The abduction of civilians during military operations and the collective punishment of families are unacceptable and unlawful practices.
Reports of looting of shops, seizure of goods, and destruction of private property by Pakistani forces and affiliated militias deepen concerns over the lawlessness imposed on local populations under the cover of security operations.
The state of Pakistan is violating its constitutional obligations, domestic laws, and international human rights commitments through enforced disappearances, collective punishment, and abuses against civilians in Balochistan.
The continued militarization of Balochistan has created an atmosphere where civilian lives, dignity, and security remain under constant threat. We urge international human rights bodies to take urgent notice of the worsening situation in Balochistan.
