Introduction
This report has been prepared by the Balochistan Human Rights Group and aims to present the latest situation of protests and their associated human rights implications in Sistan and Balochistan Province. The primary focus of the report is on documenting events, their humanitarian consequences, and assessing these developments in light of recognized international human rights norms and standards.
The temporal scope of this report covers the period from early Dey 1404 to 26 Dey 1404 (early January to 16 January 2026). It is based on a range of field reports, local sources and human rights data which following verification have been compiled and presented in an integrated narrative.
Context and Nature of the Protests
During the period under review protests and public gatherings were reported in several cities across Sistan and Balochistan Provinces including Zahedan, Iranshahr, Chabahar, Saravan, Khash and Taftan. These protests primarily took the form of street demonstrations, market strikes and the presence of citizens in public spaces. According to the information received, a significant proportion of participants were ordinary citizens including young people, market shopkeepers and local residents.
Response of Security and Law Enforcement Forces
In response to these protests, the presence of security and law enforcement forces increased noticeably in various cities throughout the province. Reports indicate the widespread deployment of forces, the establishment of checkpoints, night patrols and the imposition of restrictions on citizens’ movement, particularly during night hours. In some areas, the situation has been described as a state of highlighted security.
Use of Force and Human Consequences
According to received reports, coercive measures were used in certain instances to disperse gatherings. These measures included the firing of warning shots and in some reports direct fire, resulting in injuries to a number of citizens including eight individuals in Zahedan. Detailed information regarding the identities of the injured is not available; however, reports confirm that protesters sustained physical injuries.
Arrests and the Situation of Detainees
During the course of the protests, the arrest of hundreds of citizens was reported. These arrests often occurred during street demonstrations or at night and were carried out without transparent notification to families. In some cases, families remained unaware of the whereabouts and legal status of detainees for a period of time. Reports have also been received indicating that some detainees were released after several days.
Restrictions on Communications and Access to Information
At various points, disruption or shutdown of mobile internet access and communication services were reported in several cities of the province. These measures limited citizens’ access to information, created difficulties in obtaining updates on the condition of injured individuals and detainees and reduced the ability to document events.
Concerns Regarding Documentation and Monitoring
Reports were received regarding the deactivation or removal of certain surveillance cameras in public and private spaces. This has raised concerns about the reduction of independent monitoring and the ability to accurately document events.
Assessment Based on Human Rights Standards
According to international human rights standards, including the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, states are obligated to guarantee fundamental rights such as the right to life, the right to liberty and security of person, the right to peaceful assembly, freedom of expression and the right of access to information.
The information gathered in this report indicates that serious challenges to the observance of these rights arose during the recent protests, particularly with regard to the use of force, arbitrary arrests and restrictions on communications.
Conclusion
This report demonstrates that the recent protests in Sistan and Balochistan Province have been accompanied by significant human rights consequences. Accurate documentation, the conduct of independent and transparent investigations, and the adoption of measures to ensure the protection of citizens’ fundamental rights are essential in such circumstances. The information is correct at the time of drafting this report, however, the effort in creating this report has been difficult due to disruptions to internet access within Balochistan.
