Quetta: The Baloch Yakjehti Committee (BYC) has announced that its central leader, Mahrang Baloch, has been nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize for the second time, describing the recognition as an acknowledgment of her advocacy for human rights and peaceful activism.
The announcement came days after a Pakistani Anti-Terrorism Court sentenced Mahrang Baloch and three other activists to life imprisonment in a case linked to the killing of a Frontier Corps official. The verdict has drawn criticism from several human rights groups.
BYC Announces Nobel Peace Prize Nomination
In a statement issued on Friday, the BYC said Mahrang Baloch’s nomination was made in January 2026 but was not disclosed earlier due to the organisation’s internal policy.
According to the organisation, the timing of the announcement highlights what it described as the contrast between international recognition of Mahrang Baloch’s work and the legal action taken against her by Pakistani authorities.
The BYC claimed the nomination reflects its commitment to peaceful, democratic and human rights-based activism.
Human Rights Allegations in Balochistan
The rights group alleged that several Baloch leaders are facing fabricated cases, baseless allegations and unfair judicial proceedings aimed at silencing voices raising concerns over the human rights situation in Balochistan.
The BYC further claimed that enforced disappearances, extrajudicial killings and military operations in the region have continued, with the situation worsening following the arrests of Mahrang Baloch and other activists.
Pakistan has previously denied allegations of systematic human rights abuses in Balochistan and maintains that its security operations are aimed at combating militancy and maintaining law and order.
Call for International Attention
The BYC urged the international community, human rights organisations and democratic institutions to closely monitor developments in Balochistan and support the protection of the fundamental rights of activists, including Mahrang Baloch.
Baloch Voice for Justice Reacts
Another rights organisation, the Baloch Voice for Justice (BVJ), said Mahrang Baloch’s second Nobel Peace Prize nomination carries significant symbolic importance.
The organisation stated that while she faces life imprisonment in Pakistan, the international community continues to recognise her advocacy for peace, justice and human rights.
BVJ also called for stronger international engagement on the human rights situation in Balochistan, urging governments and global institutions to protect human rights defenders and seek the release of individuals imprisoned for peaceful activism.
Case Continues to Draw International Attention
The sentencing of Mahrang Baloch and other activists has attracted attention from international human rights organisations, many of which have expressed concern over the case and called for due process.
The Nobel Peace Prize nomination does not indicate that Mahrang Baloch has been selected for the award. It means her name has been put forward for consideration under the Nobel nomination process.