Lahore, April 12: The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) is distressed at reports emerging from Johan, Kalat, and Isplingi, Mastung, indicating a high number of civilian casualties during an alleged army operation in these areas.

While it is not possible to independently verify the reports as access is not available, citizens speak of 27 dead bodies being brought to Quetta Civil Hospital where no identification was reported to have been allowed.

HRCP calls upon all authorities to ensure that the use of force is not indiscriminate or excessive, which cannot be permitted under any circumstances, and also because that will further alienate the people of Balochistan and is unlikely to win any support for the government or security forces.

Zohra Yusuf

Chairperson