Balochistan is Pakistan’s largest and most resource-rich province, yet its people continue to face extreme hardships since its occupation. Despite its abundant natural wealth, the region is marked by systemic oppression, including genocide, extrajudicial killings, and the unlawful detention men, women and children.
Recently, security forces abducted Bebarg Baloch, a central member of the Baloch Yekjehti Committee (BYC), who was left disabled after an attack at BUETK (University in Khuzdar) in 2010. His brother, Dr. Hammal Baloch, was also taken. In response, the BYC organized a rally in Quetta, where authorities cracked down on protesters and opened fire. Three young protesters lost their lives, and many were arrested, including Dr. Mahrang Baloch, the central organizer of the BYC.
Following this, the BYC called for demonstrations across Balochistan, but these gatherings were met with violence and mass arrests. In Karachi, security forces detained BYC leaders Sammi Deen Baloch and Lala Wahab Baloch. In response, the Balochistan National Party (BNP-M) initiated a long march from Wadh to Quetta. As the marchers progressed, they faced intimidation and abuse from law enforcement. Upon reaching the Lak-Pass area, they encountered severe repression, including beatings and charges by security personnel. A suicide attack was also attempted against them but was fortunately thwarted.
Additionally, during midnight, security forces raided the residence of Sibgat Ullah Shah Jee, the central leader of the BYC, arresting him along with his younger brother and nephews. Though the later were released the next day, Shah Jee remained illegally detained for days before being produced in Hudda Jail where he was charged with 3MPO like the other detained BYC leaders. These arrests and attacks have affected nearly every family in Balochistan. People are unable to travel or go about their daily activities for fear of being arrested.
On April 6, when Akhtar Mengal’s long march was to progress towards Quetta, he was warned with charge of 3MPO and arrest, including crackdown on his sit-in which is yet restrained at the Lak-Pass area without allowing them to move further. The party, on the other hand, called for national wide strikes and wheel jam unless let to enter the capital city.
Meanwhile, the government portrays Balochistan as a peaceful and stable region, presenting a false image to the world. However, the reality is starkly different. The truth is hidden, and those who try to expose it risk abduction.
The time to speak up is now!
The time to resist is now!
The time to show the true reality of Balochistan!
