🔴 Balochistan in our thoughts: Our Resolve on Pakistan's Independence Day 🔴
Remembering "Horrors of Partition Day": Honouring Lives Lost, Standing with the Oppressed Balochi People. Another Year of Horrible Pak Atrocities.
Relentless State Terror: Pakistan’s War on Balochistan
Since its last Independence Day on 14th August, Pakistan has continued its ruthless campaign against the people of Balochistan, perpetuating a cycle of violence, repression, and human rights violations. The Baloch people, who have long fought for their rights, are subjected to a level of state terror that has few parallels in modern times. Pakistan’s actions in Balochistan are not just about suppressing dissent; they represent a concerted effort to obliterate the identity and spirit of an entire people.
Military Aggression: A Year of Bloodshed
The past year has seen a marked increase in the brutality of Pakistan’s military operations in Balochistan. On October 12, 2023, the Pakistani Army launched a massive operation in the Margat area of Bolan District and Zarghoon in Quetta, employing helicopter gunships to indiscriminately shell civilian areas. This was followed by another assault on October 9, 2023, in Sui town of Dera Bugti District, where multiple rockets were fired into civilian areas, killing and maiming innocents. These operations are part of a broader strategy to terrorize the Baloch population into submission, using the full might of the military to crush any hope of resistance.
Systematic Repression: The Kill-and-Dump Policy
The Pakistani military’s “kill-and-dump” policy has reached new levels of barbarity. In the first half of 2023 alone, there were 149 raids, 113 blockades, and 99 military operations across Balochistan, targeting regions like Kech, Bolan, Panjgur, and Quetta. The Baloch National Movement (BNM) has repeatedly condemned these atrocities, including the horrific incident on November 21, 2023, when three Baloch youth were abducted, placed in a vehicle, and blown up by Pakistani forces. Such actions are not just war crimes; they are acts of genocide aimed at erasing the Baloch people from their own land.
Collective Punishment: Targeting Families and Communities
Pakistan’s strategy of collective punishment is evident in the tragic disappearance of seven children from the same family in August 2023. These children were forcibly taken by Pakistani forces, a grim reminder of the lengths to which the state will go to crush the Baloch spirit. This tactic of targeting families and entire communities is designed to spread fear and break the will of the people. Yet, despite these heinous acts, the Baloch people have not been silenced.
Baloch Resilience: A Beacon of Defiance
In the face of such overwhelming odds, the resilience of the Baloch people stands as a testament to their indomitable spirit. Despite the daily horrors they endure, they continue to resist Pakistan’s attempts to annihilate their identity and culture. The Baloch struggle for self-determination is not just a fight for autonomy; it is a fight for survival. Their courage and steadfastness in the face of a brutal and oppressive regime are worthy of the highest praise.
Global Silence: Aiding Pakistan’s Atrocities
The international community’s silence on the atrocities in Balochistan is not just disappointing; it is complicit. By failing to hold Pakistan accountable, the world is allowing these crimes to continue unchecked. It is imperative that India, as a regional power and a champion of human rights, continues to stand with the Baloch people and bring global attention to their plight. The Baloch people deserve justice, and it is the moral duty of the global community to support them in their struggle against Pakistan’s state terrorism.
A Call to Action: Support for Balochistan
As Pakistan celebrates another Independence Day, it is time to recognize the ongoing genocide in Balochistan and take a firm stand against it. India must lead the charge in exposing Pakistan’s crimes and supporting the Baloch resistance. The Baloch people’s fight for freedom and dignity is a just cause, and their resilience in the face of unspeakable oppression is an inspiration to all who value human rights and justice. The world must not remain silent as Pakistan continues its campaign of terror in Balochistan.
Nothing seems to have changed in Balochistan, except perhaps that the relentless atrocities perpetrated by Pakistan have been overshadowed by the international media's focus on the tragic and senseless killing of innocent civilians in Gaza. While the world’s attention is diverted, Pakistan continues its brutal campaign against the Baloch people with impunity, deepening the humanitarian crisis in the region. This deliberate suppression of Balochistan's plight in global discourse only emboldens Pakistan to escalate its oppressive tactics, further silencing the voices of those who are already struggling for their very survival.
It is time to act, and also for us to re-share the article we wrote exactly one year ago.
🔴 Balochistan in our thoughts: Our Resolve on Pakistan's Independence Day 🔴
As Pakistan commemorates its Independence Day today on the 14th of August, we stand firm in shedding light on a concealed reality – the enduring torment of Balochistan. In the midst of their celebrations, we turn our gaze to a region ensnared by the clutches of the Pakistan Army and State. It's time we extend our solidarity to Balochistan, unveil their chronicle of oppression, and amplify their muted voices on the global stage.
A Day of Reflection Amidst Horrors
For us, the 14th of August is not a day of celebration but a day of remembrance. It's the "Partition Horrors Remembrance Day" (विभाजन विभीषिका स्मृति दिवस) a somber moment to honour the sacrifices of countless lives lost in the Partition Riots. As we reflect on this day, we cannot ignore the plight of Balochistan, a subjugated land stifled under Pakistan's iron grip.
In Solidarity with Balochistan
Balochistan, once adorned with hereditary rule, now bears the scars of a forced annexation. A tale of discarded principles, trampled aspirations, and stolen sovereignty emerges. On this day, as Pakistan raises its flags, let us raise our voices for Balochistan's silenced suffering.
A Legacy of Struggle
Decades ago, the Khanate of Balochistan thrived with autonomy, embracing its cultural identity and traditions. But in 1948, darkness descended. The Khan of Kalat's coerced signature marked the obliteration of their sovereignty and self-determination. From that moment, a relentless struggle for survival and self-governance ignited.
Betrayal and Occupation
The pages of Balochistan's history are marred by betrayal and coercion. Pakistan's manipulation led to the Khan's reluctant accession. This betrayal trampled upon the principles of self-determination, ignoring the Baloch people's desires. Subsequently, Pakistan's military machine invaded Balochistan in 1948, igniting a fiery quest for freedom that endures to this day.
Annihilation of Identity
In 1955, a new chapter of oppression unfolded. Pakistan eradicated the Khanate system, obliterating Balochistan's autonomy and cultural distinctiveness. Reduced to a mere Province, of nearly a failed state of Pakistan, their voice was stifled, their identity smothered. Exploitation of their natural resources fueled resentment, intensifying their sense of deprivation and injustice.
Silenced Voices Amidst Atrocities
Today, as Pakistan hoists its flag, Balochistan's suppressed voices echo louder. Enforced disappearances, extrajudicial killings, and intimidation persist, drowning their cries in a sea of pain. The brave Baloch people, resilient and determined, continue their battle for stolen freedom, dignity, and justice.
A Call to Unmask Deception
While we may look at Pakistan's Independence Day indifferently, let's not forget the agony of Balochistan. Let's pierce through the veil of Pakistan's duplicity, lay bare their manipulation of narratives, and vehemently condemn their unbridled hypocrisy. The time has come to shatter the shackles of silence and amplify Balochistan's impassioned plea for justice. It's an alarming reality that while every kid in the West is well-versed with the struggles of Palestine, only a handful are privy to the heart-wrenching plight of the Balochi people in Pakistan.
United Beyond Borders
While this day might be a festivity for Pakistan, for us, it holds a different significance. It ought to become a moment of our profound commitment to Balochistan's fight for freedom. As Pakistan raises its flag in celebration, let's unfurl the truth – a truth that starkly exposes their reign of oppression, a truth that fuels a global rallying against injustice. In unity, transcending geographical boundaries, we stand firm in advocating for a world where justice prevails.
Awaiting the Auspicious Dawn
In the anticipation of the upcoming auspicious dawn on the 15th of August, our own Independence Day, let's carry not only the legacy of Balochistan's suffering in our hearts but also the memory of our own losses during the 1947 Partition. While we solemnly pay homage to the unspoken sacrifices of our people, who lost their lives due to the twisted machinations of the British, who carved divisions within a subcontinent that was once a united "Akhand Bharat," let's renew our commitment to justice. In this commitment, we also express unyielding solidarity with the people of Balochistan, who suffer under Pak oppression1. Let's stand unwavering in solidarity, not just for Balochistan, but for the larger cause of justice itself. 🌍🗣️ #BalochistanSolidarity #ExposePakistan
Citations
Here are the sources converted into clickable links with short references to the publications:
March of ‘terror’: Pakistan grapples with deadly attacks on China interests - Al Jazeera
Baloch Separatists Continue to Launch More Sophisticated, Coordinated Attacks Against Pakistan - Jamestown Foundation
World Report 2024: Pakistan - Human Rights Watch
Pakistan: Hundreds arrested, tear gas fired as female-led protests reach capital - BBC News
Report: Terrorist Attacks Kill Nearly 1,000 Pakistanis in 2023 - Voice of America
Why protest by ethnic Baloch has put Pakistan’s key port of Gwadar on edge - Al Jazeera
Young women are leading the protest against enforced disappearances in Pakistan’s Balochistan region - The Globe and Mail
Pakistan: Retaliatory Violence In Balochistan – Analysis - Eurasia Review
Pakistan: Three Baloch youth abducted, killed by explosion, claims Baloch National Movement - Hindustan Times
Sir. Immensely pleased to see your write up on Balochistan. This topic has been of interest to me for a long time due to my association and friendship with some very close friends from the region.
The Balochistan insurgencies are rooted in a history of political betrayal and economic marginalization. After the forced annexation of Kalat in 1948, Balochistan’s relationship with Pakistan was defined by mistrust. Muhammad Ali Jinnah’s betrayal over Kalat’s independence, Zulfikar Ali Bhutto’s brutal military crackdown during the 1973-77 insurgency, and General Musharraf’s hardline approach exacerbated the alienation of the Baloch people. Dominance by Punjabi elites and the exploitation of Balochistan’s natural resources have only deepened the divide.
In a surprising twist, General Zia-ul-Haq, despite his authoritarian rule, took a different approach. His rivalry with Bhutto led him to release Baloch leaders from prison, offering jobs and contracts in an attempt to neutralize opposition. Yet, this was a tactical move, not a genuine shift in policy.
Unlike previous insurgencies led by tribal Sardars, the current uprising is middle-class-driven, with Sardars playing a diminished role. The movement is more grassroots, with a stronger emphasis on Baloch identity and autonomy. Many believe Balochistan is now closer than ever to achieving independence, driven by widespread public support and a shift in leadership.