The family of detained Balochistan activist Mahrang Baloch has accused Quetta’s Hudda Jail authorities of harassing them and obstructing legal proceedings. Nadia Baloch, Mahrang’s sister, said that during a scheduled visit, the authorities created significant hurdles. She stated that Superintendent Hameedullah Pechehi delayed and ultimately refused to sign a power of attorney, despite its completion. The visit allegedly became hostile, with family members experiencing intimidation and threats, including attempts to confiscate their phones. The family believes these actions are an attempt to restrict their access to legal remedies. Additionally, concerns have been raised about the treatment of Mahrang Baloch and other members of the Baloch Yakjehti Committee (BYC) inside the jail, claiming they face harassment and pressure from state intelligence agencies. Nadia Baloch has also rejected the accusations against her sister and stated the intention to file a defamation suit. These developments have increased tensions related to the continued detention of BYC leaders under the Maintenance of Public Order (MPO) law. The Baloch Yakjehti Committee has filed a petition in Pakistan’s Supreme Court, challenging the legality of these detentions and demanding the release of Mahrang Baloch, Bebarg Baloch, and Mama Ghaffar Baloch, calling their arrests unconstitutional and politically motivated.
