Mahrang Baloch: Doctor and Activist Fighting for Justice in Balochistan

Mahrang Baloch, a medical doctor and political activist, stands as a symbol of resilience and determination in Pakistan. Known for her courageous fight against enforced disappearances in Balochistan, her advocacy work has made her a prominent voice in the ongoing struggle for human rights in the region.

In Balochistan, a province plagued by a long-running nationalist insurgency, hundreds of women, including Baloch, have taken to the streets to protest the alleged abduction and killings of their loved ones. Among these voices, Baloch’s story is particularly poignant. In 2009, her father was reportedly taken by security service officers, only to be found dead two years later, bearing visible signs of torture. This personal tragedy propelled Baloch into activism, transforming her grief into a relentless pursuit of justice.

In late 2023, she spearheaded a 1,000-mile (1,600 km) march from Balochistan to Pakistan’s capital, Islamabad, accompanied by hundreds of women. Their mission was clear: to demand answers about the fate of their missing family members. The journey was fraught with challenges, and Baloch was arrested twice during the protest. However, this did not deter her from continuing her fight.

As a medical doctor and the leader of the Baloch Yakjehti (Unity) Committee (BYC), Baloch has become a prominent figure in the human rights movement. Her organisation works tirelessly to shed light on the plight of those affected by enforced disappearances in the region. Her activism has not gone unnoticed; in 2024, she was named in the prestigious TIME100 Next list of emerging global leaders, highlighting her influence and dedication to human rights.

The protests in Balochistan highlight the devastating impact of the counterinsurgency operation carried out by Pakistani security forces. Activists accuse the authorities of abducting and killing individuals under the guise of maintaining order, claims which Islamabad strongly denies. Despite the denials, the cries for justice continue to grow louder, with Mahrang Baloch at the forefront of this struggle.

Mahrang Baloch’s journey is a testament to the power of resilience and the unwavering commitment to justice, even in the face of immense personal loss and adversity.