# Investigation Report: Human Rights Violations in Pakistan

This report provides a detailed analysis of the human rights situation across Pakistan's provinces, highlighting enforced disappearances, extrajudicial killings, religious persecution, suppression of free expression, and other systemic abuses.​

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## Balochistan

### Jaffar Express Hijacking

On March 11, 2025, the Jaffar Express train, traveling from Quetta to Peshawar with over 400 passengers, was hijacked by the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) in the Bolan Pass region. The militants detonated explosives on the tracks, causing derailment, and opened fire, resulting in a hostage crisis. The BLA demanded the release of Baloch political prisoners, threatening to execute hostages. A military operation, "Operation Green Bolan," was launched, leading to the rescue of 354 hostages and the death of 33 militants. However, the attack resulted in at least 64 fatalities, including civilians and security personnel. ​[Wikipedia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2025_Jaffar_Express_hijacking?utm_source=chatgpt.com)

### Subsequent Protests and Crackdown

In response to the hijacking and the handling of the aftermath, protests erupted across Balochistan. On March 21, 2025, police opened fire on demonstrators in Quetta, killing three and injuring several others. Prominent human rights activist Mahrang Baloch was arrested during these protests and remains detained, with concerns raised about her safety and lack of access to legal counsel. ​

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## Sindh

### Religious Persecution

On April 18, 2025, in Karachi, a member of the minority Ahmadi community, Laeeq Cheema, was allegedly beaten to death by a mob during a rally organized by the radical Islamist group Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP). The attack occurred near an Ahmadi place of worship, highlighting ongoing persecution against the Ahmadi community. ​

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## Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP)

### Militant Violence

On March 5, 2025, twin suicide bombings targeted a military compound in Bannu, KP, resulting in the deaths of five soldiers and 13 civilians. ​

### Civilian Casualties in Military Operations

On March 29, 2025, a military operation targeting suspected Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) militants in Katlang, Mardan District, led to the deaths of nine civilians, including two women and two children. The incident sparked protests, and the KP government announced an inquiry. ​

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## Punjab

### Suppression of Free Expression

In January 2025, Human Rights Watch reported that the Pakistani government intensified its crackdown on free expression, including arbitrary restrictions and the removal of discriminatory laws that promote violence against religious minorities. ​

### Media Censorship

In February 2025, Pakistan's parliament passed a controversial bill granting the government extensive control over social media, including imprisoning users for spreading disinformation. The bill has been criticized for suppressing freedom of speech and targeting dissenting voices. ​

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## Gilgit-Baltistan and Pakistan-Administered Kashmir

### Political Repression

Authorities in these regions have been reported to suppress political parties and activists advocating for self-determination or greater autonomy. Dissent is met with repression, including arbitrary arrests, torture, and enforced disappearances. ​