The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) has strongly condemned a suicide bombing in Swat that reportedly killed at least 17 people, including seven police personnel, alongside an armed attack on a police station and Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD) offices in Kharan, Balochistan, describing both as a stark reminder of the worsening security situation in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan.

In a statement, the rights body noted the grim irony that the Swat attack struck as residents were protesting against growing lawlessness in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Taken together with the Kharan assault, HRCP said, the incidents underscored how precarious security had become in both provinces and how exposed public institutions remained to militant violence, with a devastating toll on civilians and law-enforcement personnel alike.

The commission said the state has a duty to protect all those who live and work in conflict-affected areas, while ensuring that counterterrorism measures "remain firmly anchored in the rule of law and respect for human rights." HRCP called for thorough investigations into both incidents and for those responsible to be brought to justice.

Published in Balochistan Dispatch, August 3rd , 2026