QUETTA: The Balochistan High Court has dismissed the petition challenging the arrest of Mahrang Baloch and other members of the Baloch Yakjehti Committee (BYC) under Section 3 of the Maintenance of Public Order (3 MPO).
The decision was announced by a two-member bench consisting of Chief Justice Ejaz Swati and Justice Muhammad Amir Nawaz. The court had earlier reserved its judgment after hearing the arguments presented in the case.
Mahrang Baloch, a prominent human rights activist and leader of the Baloch Yakjehti Committee, was arrested along with several other activists under 3 MPO. Her arrest sparked widespread criticism and led to protests by civil society and human rights groups across the country.
The petition challenging the arrest was filed by Mahrang Baloch’s sister, Nadia Baloch. She argued that the arrest was unlawful and politically motivated. However, the court ruled that the matter did not fall under its direct jurisdiction and advised the petitioner to approach the relevant legal forum for further proceedings.
The court’s decision to dismiss the petition has drawn mixed reactions. Supporters of Mahrang Baloch expressed disappointment and vowed to continue their legal and peaceful struggle for her release. Meanwhile, legal experts pointed out that the decision does not address the core issue of whether the arrests under 3 MPO were justified or not.
This is not the first time Mahrang Baloch has faced legal pressure due to her activism. She has been vocal about enforced disappearances and other human rights issues in Balochistan. Her supporters say these arrests are aimed at silencing dissenting voices.
As of now, Mahrang Baloch remains in custody, and her legal team is considering taking the matter to another forum, possibly a review or appeal in a higher court.
The case continues to gain attention both locally and internationally, as many human rights defenders see Mahrang Baloch as a symbol of peaceful resistance and advocacy for justice in Balochistan.
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