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BHC Refers Plea for Mahrang Baloch's Release to Home Dept
Balochistan High Court disposes of plea for Dr. Mahrang Baloch’s release, directing petitioner to approach home department. BYC rallies continue across Balochistan.
ND
by News Desk
2025-04-15
BHC Refers Plea for Mahrang Baloch's Release to Home Dept

The Balochistan High Court (BHC) on Tuesday disposed of a constitutional petition seeking the release of Baloch Yakjehti Committee (BYC) chief organiser Dr. Mahrang Baloch, advising the petitioner to take up the matter with the Balochistan home department.

The petition, filed by Nadia Baloch — sister of the detained leader — challenged the arrest and detention of Mahrang and other activists under the Maintenance of Public Order (MPO) Ordinance. A division bench, comprising Acting Chief Justice Ejaz Ahmed Swati and Justice Muhammad Aamir Rana, heard the case and converted the petition into a representation, referring it to the provincial home secretary for further action.

The court suggested the petitioner should first approach the home department to determine the legality of the MPO under which the arrests were made.

Speaking to Dawn.com, Advocate Imran Baloch, who represents the petitioner, said, “We had told the court to apprise us on details of Mahrang’s case, which is our legal right. However, instead of getting details from the government, the court directed us to approach the home department.”

Dr. Mahrang Baloch was arrested in the early hours of March 22, a day after police cracked down on BYC protesters staging a sit-in near the University of Balochistan on Sariab Road. The protest was held against enforced disappearances, particularly of activist Bebarg Baloch. The crackdown saw the use of tear gas, water cannons, and blank firing by police. BYC claimed three protesters were killed and 13 injured, while police reported injuries to around 10 personnel.

Mahrang, along with more than 150 others, was booked under terrorism charges following the protest.

The arrest sparked widespread anger, with the BYC calling for shutter-down strikes and protests in various parts of Balochistan, including Quetta, Turbat, Kalat, Panjgur, Mastung, Kharan, Dalbandin, and Dhadar. On Sunday, protest rallies were staged in over 20 cities and towns, although Quetta saw heavy police deployment preventing a planned demonstration.

Protesters carried placards and banners demanding the immediate release of Mahrang, Beebow Baloch, and other detained activists, chanting slogans against the government and law enforcement agencies.

The BYC and its supporters have vowed to continue peaceful demonstrations until their leaders are released and their demands are addressed by the authorities.

 
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