Pakistan Court Sentences 2 Baloch Activists to Life for 2024 Protest Killing

3 articles · Updated · bbc.co.uk · Jun 24

A Pakistani anti-terrorism court gave Mahrang Baloch and Sibghatullah Shah life sentences after convicting them of terrorism, sedition and murder over a paramilitary soldier's death during a 2024 protest in Gwadar.
Baloch, 33, and Shah deny the charges and are expected to appeal, while her sister Nadia Baloch said the family would challenge what it called an unfair and non-transparent trial.
Mahrang Baloch had become one of the best-known campaigners against enforced disappearances in Balochistan, leading marches and protests after her father disappeared in 2009 and was later found dead.
The case lands in a province where activists say thousands of ethnic Baloch have vanished during a long separatist conflict, allegations Pakistan rejects as exaggerated or misattributed.

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bbc.co.uk1d ago

Mahrang Baloch, Sibghatullah Shah Sentenced to Life for Terrorism in Pakistan

The Daily Star1d ago

Pakistani rights activist Mahrang Baloch sentenced to life in prison | The Daily Star

The Times of India1d ago

Who is Mahrang Baloch? The Pakistani activist who has been sentenced to life in prison - The Times of India

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Dr. Mahrang Baloch and Sibghatullah Shah Sentenced to Life: Legal, Social, and International Repercussions for Baloch Rights Movement

Overview

On June 24, 2026, an anti-terrorism court delivered a high-profile verdict against Dr. Mahrang Baloch and Sibghatullah Shah, sparking immediate legal and public reactions. Their lawyer quickly announced plans to appeal in the Balochistan High Court, highlighting the significant legal challenges ahead. The ruling drew strong criticism from international human rights organizations, with Amnesty International raising concerns about detainees’ health and urging Pakistan to ensure fair trials and uphold fundamental rights. This case has intensified scrutiny of Pakistan’s justice system and ignited debate about due process, transparency, and the broader impact on civil society and activism.

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