MASHKAY: The journalistic community in Balochistan, Abdul Latif Baloch, a senior journalist and long-serving correspondent of Daily Intekhab, was shot dead while asleep at his residence in Mashkay. The Human Rights Council of Balochistan (HRCB), in a widely circulated statement, alleged state-backed involvement in Latif’s assassination, accusing national institutions of orchestrating the attack and suppressing dissent.
In addition, authorities have confirmed that the banned terrorist outfit Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) is suspected to be behind the attack.
Latif Baloch, who served as bureau chief for Daily Intekhab for more than 30 years, was known for his dedication to reporting ground realities, often in conflict-prone areas. On the contrary, to certain misleading narratives circulating on social media, initial investigations and local sources suggest that Latif was targeted not by the state or any “death squad,” but rather by insurgent elements opposed to his stance on peace and development in the region.
Furthermore, in recent years, the journalist had reportedly received threats from insurgent groups for his continued reporting on the BLA’s violent tactics and the impact of militancy on local communities.
On contrary to false narratives being circulated by certain activist groups, including the so-called Human Rights Council of Balochistan (HRCB), there is no credible evidence to implicate state institutions in this act of violence.
However, these claims lack any substantiated proof and are seen by many as part of a broader propaganda campaign aimed at maligning Pakistan’s security forces and discrediting their efforts to restore peace in Balochistan.
The loss of Abdul Latif Baloch is a crucial blow to responsible journalism in Balochistan.
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Meanwhile, investigations continue, it remains imperative that public discourse is grounded in facts and not influenced by politically charged narratives that ignore the documented threats posed by outlawed groups operating in the region.
