Balochistan Home Minister Highlights Threats to Judges Impacting Terrorism Convictions

Islamabad, Pakistan Jul 24, 2026 ALN: Balochistan Home Minister Mir Zia Lango said on Friday that terrorists threaten judges after being convicted, resulting in the province’s low conviction rate in terrorism-related cases.

Speaking to ARY News programme Bakhabar Savera, Lango elaborated on the precarious situation that judges in Balochistan face, stating that the intimidation of judicial figures is a critical factor contributing to the low conviction rates for terrorism-related offenses in the province. He pointed out that this environment of fear not only affects judges but also has broader implications for the rule of law and the functioning of the justice system.

Judges in Balochistan have increasingly become targets of violence, as they play a pivotal role in adjudicating cases involving terrorism. Lango mentioned that terrorists specifically target security forces, civilians, and public installations, often acting on the directives of what he termed their "foreign masters." This assertion reflects a common narrative in Pakistan that links local militant groups to external influences, which complicates the internal security landscape.

“Terrorists have no religion or nationality. They kill innocent people and continue to target security personnel, civilians, and state institutions,” he stated, emphasizing the indiscriminate nature of these attacks. Such remarks underscore the growing concern among government officials regarding the challenges posed by terrorism in the region, which has seen a resurgence of militant activity in recent years.

Referring to recent attacks, the home minister highlighted a tragic incident where terrorists had targeted a passenger bus, leading to the deaths of women and children. This incident exemplifies the brutal tactics employed by terrorists, who not only seek to instill fear but also aim to disrupt the social fabric of communities. Lango also noted that the judiciary is now on the radar of these violent groups, indicating a disturbing trend where even those tasked with upholding the law are not safe from retribution.

“Judges and their family members face serious threats from terrorists,” Lango said, adding that the provincial government is taking additional measures to strengthen security for judges. The acknowledgment of these threats marks a significant recognition of the risks judicial officials face and highlights the need for robust protective measures.

The home minister pointed out that the conviction rate in terrorism cases in Balochistan remains critically low, a situation exacerbated by the intimidation judges face after handing down convictions. This low conviction rate has far-reaching implications for the fight against terrorism, as it undermines the deterrent effect of the legal system and emboldens militant groups.

In a recent incident that underscores these threats, a sessions judge was killed, and another judge was injured when unidentified armed men attacked a vehicle carrying members of the judiciary near Wali Khan Bypass. Sessions Judge Abdul Hakeem Kakar and his security guard were killed, while Additional Sessions Judge Tariq Lashari sustained injuries, according to police reports. The attack occurred as the judges were traveling from Quetta to Mastung, highlighting the risks associated with their daily duties.

The Balochistan government has responded to this alarming trend by condemning the attack and ordering decisive action against those responsible. Government spokesperson Shahid Rind characterized the attack on the judiciary as a planned act of terrorism. He stated, "Terrorists deliberately targeted the judiciary. Two judges were attacked, and one embraced martyrdom,” emphasizing the calculated nature of the assault against judicial officials.

Rind further remarked that attacks on judges and law enforcement personnel represent a failed attempt to challenge the writ of the state. Such statements reflect the government's resolve to counter the threats posed by terrorism and to reinforce the importance of judicial independence in the face of violence.

In light of these developments, Home Minister Lango mentioned that legislation is being introduced to enhance the protection of judges and strengthen the legal framework to combat terrorism. This legislative initiative is crucial not only for safeguarding judges but also for restoring public confidence in the judicial system, which is essential for the effective administration of justice.

Furthermore, Lango indicated that several high-level meetings had been convened following the recent attack to reassess and bolster the security arrangements for judges. He noted that Balochistan Chief Minister Sarfraz Bugti had convened an important meeting to evaluate the security situation, demonstrating the government's commitment to addressing the escalating threats against the judiciary.

This situation in Balochistan is reflective of broader challenges faced by the Pakistani judicial system, where judges often operate under duress due to threats from various militant groups. The judiciary's independence is critical for ensuring that justice is served, yet the persistent threats of violence can lead to self-censorship and reluctance to impose harsh penalties on convicted terrorists.

The implications of these developments extend beyond the immediate safety of judges; they raise questions about the efficacy of the legal system in countering terrorism. A low conviction rate can embolden terrorists, who may perceive the judicial system as weak or ineffective. This perception can lead to increased violence and further destabilization of the region.

As the Balochistan government seeks to enhance security measures for judges and improve the legal framework for combating terrorism, it must also address the underlying social and political issues that contribute to the rise of militancy. This includes fostering community engagement, addressing grievances, and ensuring that the rule of law prevails without fear or favor.

In conclusion, the threats against judicial figures in Balochistan highlight a critical juncture in the fight against terrorism in Pakistan. The government's response, including proposed legislative changes and enhanced security measures, will be pivotal in determining the future effectiveness of the judicial system in addressing terrorism-related cases. The safety of judges, the integrity of the legal process, and the broader fight against terrorism are all interconnected, necessitating a comprehensive approach to ensure justice and maintain public trust in the rule of law.