Key Takeaways
- The Balochistan High Court has admitted a petition filed by Dr Mahrang Baloch, challenging her life sentence.
- A bench of the high court ordered notices to be issued to relevant authorities for their response.
- Simultaneously, the Supreme Court also issued notices in denial of post-arrest bail in related cases.
The Balochistan High Court (BHC) has agreed to hear a petition filed by Dr Mahrang Baloch, challenging her life sentence awarded by an anti-terrorism court. The case involves the killing of a security personnel member, and Dr Mahrang is the chief organiser of the Baloch Yakjehti Committee (BYC).
During Wednesday's hearing, Justice Gul Hassan Tareen and Najmuddin Mengal heard the matter. Additional Advocate General Akbar Shah appeared on behalf of the provincial government, while advocates Jadain Dashti and Nadia Baloch represented Dr Mahrang.
The high court has ordered notices to be issued to relevant authorities for their response, indicating that the life sentence remains in force unless it is suspended or set aside by subsequent proceedings. The court's decision allows the case to proceed on its merits.
In a related development, the Supreme Court (SC) also took up cases filed by Dr Mahrang and other BYC leaders, Beebow Baloch, and Beebarg Baloch. A three-judge bench headed by Justice Muhammad Ali Mazhar issued notices in denial of post-arrest bail under the Anti-Terrorism Act (ATA), 1997.
Justice Mazhar inquired about separate FIRs registered against all three individuals during the hearing. Advocate Jibran Nasir confirmed that separate FIRs had been registered, explaining that two out of six witnesses had recorded testimonies against Dr Mahrang, and all sections included in the FIRs were bailable.
The proceedings reflect ongoing legal challenges by BYC leaders against their convictions and sentences. The admission of the appeal by the high court signifies a significant step in the legal process for Dr Mahrang Baloch.
Legal experts suggest that the outcome of these cases will have implications for future legal procedures involving political activists and leaders in Balochistan, particularly those facing life sentences under anti-terrorism laws.
