Baloch rights activist claims Pakistan Army pushing locals to bonded labour

“The people of Mashkay Tank are facing the worst atrocities in the ongoing struggle of Balochistan,” Sammi Deen Baloch was quoted as saying by ANI.

She also informed that about a month ago, an army camp was attacked by separatists in Balochistan’s Mashkay

She said, “After this attack, the locals are forced to work for free in inhumane conditions. They are forced to leave their occupations and jobs. Moreover, all the physically fit men of the area are taken to labour camps and are forced to do labour work for free. They are forced to work as cleaners, sweepers and physical labourers for free.”

The right activist even said in some cases the people are used as a human shield to protect the army personnel in case of potential attacks.

“They are captured in a live prison, they are not allowed to take care of their families or go back to their farms. For over a month now these men have been working for the army for free, whereas their fields remain barren. Their families are forced to starve and their pockets remain empty," she said.

She claimed three people were victims of enforced disappearance in recent times.