Karachi police have detained several individuals, including prominent human rights activists and leaders of the Baloch Yakjehti Committee (BYC), during a protest against the ‘violent crackdown’ by state authorities on participants of the ‘Baloch National Gathering.’

These arrests occur as negotiations between the BYC and the government continue in Gwadar, aiming to reach an agreement to address the ongoing unrest in Balochistan.

The BYC organized the demonstration outside the Karachi Arts Council to protest the reported use of force by state authorities on participants in the ‘Baloch Raaji Muchi’ protests. Baloch activists and human rights advocates gathered to express concerns over the state’s handling of the situation in Balochistan.

During the protest, police reportedly cordoned off the area near the Karachi Press Club and arrested approximately 12 demonstrators. Among those detained were Professor Nida Kirmani, a notable human rights activist, and several Baloch women, including BYC leader Fauzia Baloch. The detainees have been taken to a local police station.

In a statement issued on the social media platform X, the BYC accused the Sindh police of ‘brutally assaulting’ rally participants, detaining dozens of Baloch women and men. According to the statement, political activists and women were dragged on the streets and transported to police stations in police vehicles.

These arrests follow ongoing negotiations between the BYC and the government over several key demands. The BYC is demanding the registration of First Information Reports (FIRs) for those killed and injured during the ‘Baloch National Gathering’ protests, as well as the release of all individuals detained in connection with the demonstrations.

Additional demands include the withdrawal of all FIRs against participants, assurances that no protester will face harassment or legal action after the sit-in concludes, the reopening of blocked roads, and the restoration of internet services.

The recent arrests in Karachi have raised concerns regarding the government’s sincerity in the negotiations, as activists continue to face detention and alleged harassment.