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Islamabad: The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) has accused armed forces of "indiscriminate bombing, killing and torture of people in the troubled Balochistan province, besides holding intelligence agencies responsible for the "mysterious disappearance" of 18 labour union leaders of a petroleum company".

The HRPC, In its fact-finding mission report, stated that it had received evidence that the "action of armed forces has led to number of deaths. The population has also been subjected to indiscriminate bombings. Many of the casualities were women and children. The dead also included Hindus, who were forced to leave their homes due to the fighting." The report was released by HRCP Chairperson Asma Jehangir, who, along with Dr Mubashir Hassan and Mr Afrasaib Khattak, had visited Dera Bugti and other troubled areas that witnessed violence during the past few months.

"Among the most disturbing is the disappearance of 18 labour union leaders of Pakistan Petroleum Ltd., in December. These leaders were in Karachi to negotiate various issue with the management," the reports further stated.

The fact-finding mission was also attacked on their way to Dera Bugti when some unidentified persons fired at their vehicle.

In its recommendations, the HRCP suggested "immediate ceasefire" in the province. A time bound plan must be drawn up by the government for the demilitarisation of the province. The economic and political rights of the tribal population must be respected.