Balochistan separatist leader Mir Yar has launched a scathing attack on Pakistan’s Shehbaz Sharif government, accusing it of demolishing a large number of mosques across Balochistan, further intensifying allegations of state repression in the troubled province.

In a strong public statement, Mir Yar claimed that religious sites have been destroyed during security operations carried out by Pakistani forces, contradicting Islamabad’s repeated assertions that it protects religious freedom and minority rights. He alleged that the demolitions were conducted under the guise of counter-insurgency measures, but in reality targeted civilian spaces and deepened alienation among the local population.

The accusations place renewed focus on the role of Pakistan’s military establishment in Balochistan, with critics arguing that the civilian government has little real authority in the province. According to Mir Yar, the Shehbaz administration has failed to restrain security forces, allowing actions that allegedly infringe on both religious and civil rights.

Analysts note that the allegations expose a stark contradiction in Pakistan’s international posture. While Islamabad frequently raises concerns about the treatment of religious institutions in other countries, it faces growing criticism over its own handling of dissent and religious spaces in conflict-hit regions like Balochistan.

Human rights groups have long documented claims of enforced disappearances, destruction of civilian infrastructure, and lack of accountability in the province. The alleged demolition of mosques, if substantiated, would add a serious dimension to ongoing concerns about collective punishment and erosion of basic freedoms.

The Pakistani government has so far not provided a detailed response to Mir Yar’s claims. Observers say the silence reinforces perceptions that Islamabad prefers denial over transparent investigation, further fuelling resentment and instability in Balochistan. 

This picture is taken from IndiaTV.