Prominent Balochi Writer Ghamkhwar Hayat Shot Dead in Targeted Attack in Nushki

Renowned Balochi and Brahui writer, poet, and academic Ghamkhwar Hayat, whose real name was Professor Muhammad Khan, was shot dead by unidentified armed men near Nushki on Saturday, in what police described as a targeted attack.

According to law enforcement officials, Professor Hayat was traveling from Nushki to Quetta when gunmen opened fire on his vehicle near Killi Mengal, on the outskirts of Nushki. He sustained multiple gunshot wounds and died at the scene.

The attackers fled immediately after the shooting. Police and rescue officials reached the site and transferred the body to Teaching Hospital Nushki, where legal formalities were completed before the body was handed over to his family.

Authorities have launched an investigation into the killing, but no arrests had been made and no group had claimed responsibility at the time of reporting.

Leading Voice in Balochi and Brahui Literature

Ghamkhwar Hayat was one of Balochistan’s most respected literary figures. He served as an assistant professor at Degree College Nushki and was widely known for his contributions to education and regional literature.

Over the course of his career, he authored more than 15 books and wrote extensively in both Balochi and Brahui. His work included poetry, short stories, translations, and literary criticism.

Much of his poetry was composed in Brahui, and his writings often explored themes of culture, identity, history, and social justice. He also translated important literary works and essays into Balochi, helping enrich the province’s literary landscape.

Literary Community Mourns Irreparable Loss

The news of Professor Hayat’s death triggered an outpouring of grief from writers, academics, students, and cultural organizations across Pakistan.

Colleagues described him as a dedicated teacher, thoughtful scholar, and powerful literary voice whose work played a major role in preserving and promoting Balochi and Brahui languages.

His contributions earned him deep respect among readers and intellectuals throughout Balochistan and beyond.

Security Concerns in Balochistan

The killing has renewed concerns about the safety of educators, writers, and public intellectuals in Balochistan, a province that has experienced recurring incidents of violence over the years.

Civil society groups and literary organizations have called on authorities to conduct a transparent investigation and ensure that those responsible are brought to justice.

Enduring Legacy

Ghamkhwar Hayat leaves behind a rich body of literary work that will continue to inspire future generations of writers and scholars.

His death is being mourned as a profound loss for Pakistan’s literary and academic communities, and particularly for the cultural heritage of Balochistan.

Courtesy: tribune