Dr. Mahrang Baloch, a prominent human rights defender and leader of the Baloch Yakjehti Committee (BYC), has recently gained international recognition by being included in Time magazine’s ‘2024 Time100 Next’ list. This prestigious list highlights 100 emerging leaders who are making a significant impact in their fields. Mahrang earned her place on this list for her unwavering commitment to advocating peacefully for Baloch rights, particularly in a region plagued by violence and systemic abuses.
Mahrang Baloch’s journey into activism began at a young age, deeply influenced by personal tragedy. In December 2009, her father, Ghaffar Longove, disappeared under suspicious circumstances outside a hospital in Karachi. At the time, she was still in primary school but took to the streets, burning her school books in protest and demanding justice for her father. Her father’s mutilated body was discovered in 2011, solidifying her resolve to fight against human rights abuses in Balochistan.
In 2018, after her brother was abducted by Pakistani intelligence agencies, Mahrang intensified her activism. The formation of the Baloch Yakjehti Committee in 2020 marked a turning point in her efforts to organize and mobilize the community against enforced disappearances and extrajudicial killings. The BYC represents a new chapter in Baloch nationalism, focusing on inclusivity and grassroots involvement rather than traditional leadership structures dominated by the landed elite.
Mahrang’s advocacy centers around several key demands aimed at addressing the grievances of the Baloch people. Chief among these is the establishment of a United Nations fact-finding mission to investigate human rights violations in Balochistan. She argues that the Pakistani state has systematically ignored and suppressed evidence of extrajudicial killings and enforced disappearances, with estimates suggesting that over 25,000 Baloch individuals have been abducted since 2003.The BYC has organized numerous protests and marches to raise awareness about these issues. In December 2023, following the extrajudicial killing of Balaach Mola Bakhsh while in custody of the Counter Terrorism Department, Mahrang led a significant long march to Islamabad. This event galvanized hundreds of relatives of missing persons and drew attention to the ongoing violence faced by the Baloch community.
Despite facing harassment and violent reprisals from authorities, including arrests and intimidation tactics aimed at suppressing their movement, Mahrang remains resolute. She emphasizes that peaceful advocacy is essential for achieving justice and accountability for the Baloch people.
Mahrang’s relationship with the Pakistani government has been fraught with conflict. The government has often responded to protests with violence and disinformation campaigns aimed at discrediting activists like Mahrang. Caretaker Prime Minister Anwaarul Haq Kakar’s comments regarding supporters of Baloch protesters illustrate the government’s dismissive attitude towards legitimate grievances raised by activists.
The government’s failure to engage meaningfully with Mahrang and other advocates further exacerbates tensions. They argue that without sincere negotiations addressing their demands, including an end to enforced disappearances and extrajudicial killings, their movement will only grow stronger.
Balochistan is Pakistan’s largest province yet remains one of its poorest regions. The historical neglect by successive governments has fueled resentment among the Baloch people, who feel marginalized and exploited. This sentiment is compounded by allegations of state-sponsored violence against those who dare to speak out against injustices.
The political landscape in Balochistan is characterized by a struggle for autonomy and recognition of rights. The BYC seeks to redefine this struggle through peaceful means, challenging traditional narratives that often resort to armed resistance or separatism. Mahrang’s emphasis on inclusivity—particularly involving women and marginalized groups—marks a significant shift in how Baloch nationalism is articulated.
Time magazine’s ‘2024 Time100 Next’ list recognizes individuals who are shaping the future across various fields such as art, politics, business, and advocacy. This list aims to highlight those who are making an impact early in their careers, showcasing diverse voices that challenge conventional norms of leadership. Mahrang’s inclusion reflects not only her personal achievements but also brings global attention to the plight of the Baloch people.
Dr. Mahrang Baloch’s recognition on Time magazine’s ‘2024 Time100 Next’ list underscores her significant contributions to advocating for human rights in Balochistan. Her journey from a grieving daughter to a prominent activist illustrates the power of resilience in confronting systemic injustices. As she continues to lead peaceful protests and demand accountability from the state, Mahrang embodies hope for many who have suffered under oppressive regimes.
Her story serves as a reminder that advocacy can take many forms—often rooted in personal experiences—and can lead to broader societal change. While challenges remain daunting, Mahrang’s commitment to peaceful activism offers a path forward for addressing long-standing grievances within Pakistan’s marginalized communities.
The views expressed in this article are the author’s own and do not necessarily reflect Coverpage’s editorial stance.
