Balochistan Activist's Family Alleges Harassment by Jail Officials

Accusations Against Quetta Jail Authorities

Recent reports indicate that the family of detained Balochistan leader Mahrang Baloch has accused the authorities at Hudda Jail in Quetta of harassment. They claim that officials are intentionally hindering legal processes and subjected them to intimidation during a planned visit.

Details from Nadia Baloch's Visit

As reported by a local media outlet, Mahrang Baloch’s sister, Nadia Baloch, stated that prison officials obstructed her efforts to obtain a power of attorney that had already been signed and certified by her brother. She arrived at the facility on Monday morning but faced delays from Superintendent Hameedullah Pechehi, who allegedly stalled the process for hours before refusing to finalize the document.

Nadia recounted, "When I inquired about the delay, the superintendent claimed he needed directions from the Inspector General of Prisons."

Hostile Environment During the Visit

Nadia further described the visit as hostile, with officials intimidating her and her family. "We were surrounded by a significant police presence, who threatened us and attempted to seize our phones," she explained. "This was not merely a delay; it was a calculated effort to obstruct our access to legal options."

Concerns Over Treatment of Mahrang Baloch

She expressed serious concerns regarding Mahrang Baloch's treatment in jail, alleging that he and other members of the Baloch Yakjehti Committee (BYC) are facing harassment and threats. Nadia stated, "The jail superintendent is acting under pressure from state intelligence agencies, and we were warned to remain silent or face repercussions."

Rejection of Defamatory Claims

Nadia dismissed recent allegations made against Mahrang Baloch by the Director General of the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) as false and defamatory. She mentioned that Baloch plans to file a defamation lawsuit if permitted by law, but authorities are obstructing this legal avenue while continuing to mistreat him in custody.

Legal Action by Baloch Yakjehti Committee

The situation has heightened tensions regarding the ongoing detention of BYC leaders under the Maintenance of Public Order (MPO) law. On Tuesday, the BYC submitted a petition to Pakistan's Supreme Court, challenging the legality of these detentions.

According to the report, the petition seeks the release of Mahrang Baloch, Bebarg Baloch, and Mama Ghaffar Baloch, labeling their arrests as "unconstitutional and politically motivated."