Human Rights Hearing Highlights Attacks on Baloch and Ahmadi Minorities in Pakistan

In a recent meeting of the Tom Lantos Human Rights Commission, urgent calls were made for Pakistan to open its political space for all ethnic and religious minorities and to conduct genuinely free and fair elections. The discussions highlighted the pressing need for accountability from both civilian and military leaders in Pakistan, emphasizing that the time for duplicity is over.

Ben Lisonbee Linden, a key speaker at the hearing, addressed the alarming legal and physical attacks against religious and ethnic minorities in Pakistan. He pointed out that these human rights violations not only threaten the rights of specific groups but also undermine the rule of law for all citizens, creating a hostile environment for dissent.

A significant focus was placed on the Baloch community, particularly the Baloch Iqjety Committee (BYC), which has mobilized thousands to peacefully demand justice and an end to enforced disappearances. Linden reported that members of the BYC face arrests during peaceful protests, with internet services often suspended and media coverage severely restricted. Notably, Dr. Marang Baluch, a chief organizer of the BYC, has been in arbitrary detention since March, alongside other activists. Recent amendments to anti-terrorism laws in Baluchistan allow for extended detention without charges, raising serious concerns about due process.

The meeting also shed light on the plight of religious minorities, particularly the Ahmadi community, which faces systemic discrimination under Pakistan's penal code. Linden noted that harassment against Ahmadis surged around the recent Eid holiday, with individuals coerced into signing affidavits to refrain from religious practices. Tragically, three Ahmadis have been killed in targeted attacks since mid-April, and local authorities have arrested community members, including children, outside their places of worship.

Moreover, the commission discussed the misuse of Pakistan's blasphemy laws, which have been weaponized against religious minorities. In 2024 alone, 344 new blasphemy cases were reported, leading to widespread harassment and intimidation. Disturbingly, ten individuals accused of blasphemy were extrajudicially killed last year.

The discussions at the commission underscore a critical moment for Pakistan, as the international community calls for a commitment to human rights and the protection of minority groups. The outcomes of this meeting may influence future diplomatic relations and support for Pakistan, particularly as it navigates its political landscape.