SKM

Open Letter to the Honorable Chief Justice of the Balochistan High Court. Subject: Request for intervene and Independent Investigation into the Tragic Deaths of Asif and His Family ————————————————————————- Honorable Chief Justice, We write to you with profound grief and deep concern regarding the tragic incident involving Mr. Asif, who allegedly killed his wife and children before taking his own life. This heartbreaking loss of multiple lives has shaken many people across Balochistan and raises serious questions that demand an impartial and transparent investigation. Prior to his death, Mr. Asif reportedly recorded a video statement in which he named an influential individual, Mr. Aftab Jabal, and alleged that he had been subjected to continuous harassment, threats, intimidation, and pressure to comply with what he described as unnatural demands. According to the statement, these actions caused severe mental distress, trauma, and fear for the safety of his family. If these allegations are true, then this tragedy cannot be viewed merely as an isolated incident. It becomes a matter of grave public importance involving abuse of authority, workplace harassment, psychological torture, and the possible misuse of state power by a government employee against a vulnerable individual. We respectfully urge you to take notice of this matter in the interest of justice and direct an independent, transparent, and impartial inquiry into all circumstances surrounding the deaths. Every allegation contained in the deceased's recorded statement should be thoroughly investigated, and any person found responsible for harassment, coercion, intimidation, or abuse of authority should be held accountable under the law. This case also highlights a broader societal concern. Too often, victims of harassment, bullying, abuse of power, and psychological persecution suffer in silence until the consequences become irreversible. We therefore request the Honorable Court to consider issuing appropriate directions to government, semi-government, and private institutions to strengthen mechanisms for workplace safety and accountability. In particular, we urge consideration of: 1. Mandatory workplace harassment prevention and complaint mechanisms in all public and private institutions. 2. Proper criminal and psychological background verification and screening procedures for employees entrusted with public authority and sensitive responsibilities. 3. Psychological assessments and regular evaluations for positions involving significant power over others. 4. Effective systems for reporting harassment, intimidation, abuse of authority, and threats without fear of retaliation. 5. Stronger institutional safeguards to protect vulnerable individuals from workplace victimization and coercion. We are deeply concerned that many institutions are failing to adequately address patterns of harassment, abuse, and misconduct. A society cannot prosper when individuals fear those who hold authority over them. Public trust depends upon accountability, transparency, and the rule of law. We have immense respect for the judiciary and great hope in Your leadership commitment to justice. Although Asif is no longer among us to speak for himself, a thorough investigation may still reveal the truth, provide accountability where warranted, and help prevent similar tragedies in the future. Justice for the deceased and his family would not only serve their memory but would also send a powerful message that no individual, regardless of influence or position, is above the law. We respectfully request your intervention in this matter in the larger public interest and in the pursuit of justice. With respect, Concerned Citizens and Members of Civil Society Balochistan