Baloch National Movement (BNM)

BNM Protests Against Baloch Genocide in Front of White House

https://thebnm.org/bnmusa/20172/

Wednesday, January 10, 2024, | Ref: 3/ 2024

Photos :

https://thebnm.org/footages/bnmusa/4506/

Video :

https://youtu.be/WQbxN3BT9ko?si=KjS-WmuItFi9vB6l

The Baloch National Movement - USA Chapter organized a demonstration in front of the White House in Washington DC, advocating for the March against Baloch Genocide in Balochistan. Participants, including children and diverse community members, gathered, raising voices against the ongoing atrocities and human rights violations in Balochistan. Chants filled the air, urging President Joe Biden to intervene and halt the Baloch genocide.

Former BSO Chairman Waheed Baloch addressed the demonstrators, highlighting their protest against the 75 years of atrocities committed in Balochistan by Pakistan. They stand in solidarity with Baloch families facing abductions and forced disappearances due to Pakistan's occupation of Balochistan.

Dismissing Pakistan's claims of Baloch connections with India, Waheed Baloch labeled it baseless propaganda. He stressed that if India truly supported Balochistan, its situation wouldn't be as dire.

Sufi Laghari of the Sindhi Foundation criticized Pakistan's tendency to blame India for its failings. Laghari questioned the disappearance of thousands in Balochistan, countering the accusations of Indian involvement as failed propaganda.

Sami Baloch from BNM highlighted the ongoing Baloch genocide since Pakistan's occupation of Balochistan. He emphasized their solidarity with those affected by the Pakistani army's forced disappearances and killings of Baloch people.

Additional speakers, including Raja Dahir of the World Sindhi Congress, event organizer Nabi Bakhsh Baloch, and Hani Baloch, addressed the gathering and media representatives.

Despite challenging weather conditions with heavy rain and temperatures at three degrees Celsius, the protesters assembled as planned, amplifying their voices against the Baloch genocide.

BNM Germany chapter holds solidarity protest for families of forcibly disappeared persons

Sunday, January 7, 2024, | Ref: 2/ 2024

https://thebnm.org/protests/20165/

Video : https://youtu.be/19xjwXJFzfg

Pictures: https://thebnm.org/footages/bnmgermany/4503/

In a powerful demonstration of support, the Baloch National Movement's Germany Chapter staged a protest in solidarity with the families of forcibly disappeared persons. The gathering witnessed a significant turnout of the Baloch diaspora in Germany, emphasizing the gravity of the human rights violations in Balochistan orchestrated by Pakistani forces. The event aimed to shed light on the ongoing struggle against the enforced disappearances and the use of force faced during the peaceful long march for the Baloch genocide.

Hammal Khan, a member of the Central Committee of the BNM, addressed the demonstrators, emphasizing that the movement sparked after the staged encounter of Balaach Mola Bakhsh isn't limited to individuals or specific families but stands for the entire Baloch nation. He stressed the collective national sense of belonging as the driving force uniting them, regardless of their geographical distance from their homeland.

Asghar Ali, President of the BNM Germany Chapter, acknowledged the profound pain experienced by the families of the forcibly disappeared persons and praised the resilient role of Baloch women in organizing the movement. He highlighted the unwavering determination of Zakir Majeed's mother, abducted in 2009, as a testament to a mother's relentless struggle for her forcibly disappeared son.

Sammul Baloch, the vice president, condemned the media's silence on the Baloch nation's suffering, declaring an unwavering commitment to making their voices heard globally. She invoked the legacy of Balach and Chakar, citing the resilience and strength of the Baloch nation against oppression.

Shar Hasan, joint secretary of the BNM Germany Chapter, criticized Pakistan's disregard for human rights, denouncing their colonial policies that have turned Balochistan into an extended prison.

Sadiq Saeed, a member, expressed solidarity with the long march, highlighting the harassment and indifference faced by the families of the forcibly disappeared persons from the Pakistani state and media.

Safia Manzoor urged the United Nations to intervene, emphasizing the need for an investigation into the human rights violations in Balochistan and the accountability of those responsible.

Bakhtawar Baloch stressed that the ongoing protest in Islamabad echoes the sit-in started after the murder of Balaach Mola Buksh, condemning the Pakistani military's involvement in the Baloch genocide.

Salma Baloch highlighted the enduring struggles of Baloch families in Balochistan, where forced disappearances and atrocities have become a painful norm.

The protest also saw solidarity expressed by social activist Felix, who condemned the use of force against peaceful Baloch activists.

Abdul Rehman, former finance secretary of the BNM Germany Chapter, and Hasan Baloch played pivotal roles in organizing and leading the protest, drawing attention to the plight of the forcibly disappeared persons.

As the demonstration concluded, Asghar Ali, the President, extended gratitude to all participants, vowing to persist in their struggle for the people of Balochistan.

Paank's December 2023 Report: Urgent Plea for Global Attention on Long March Against Baloch Genocide

Saturday, January 6, 2024, | Ref: 1/ 2024

https://thebnm.org/paank/20161/

Report - Englishhttps://thebnm.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/Paank-HR-Report-December2023-English.pdf

Report - Urdu :https://thebnm.org/urdu/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/Paank-HR-Report-December2023-Urdu.pdf

Paank has released a comprehensive report on the state of human rights for December 2023. The continued string of human rights violations by Pakistani forces during this period has sparked grave concerns regarding ongoing atrocities against the Baloch populace. Paank, the human rights entity within the National Movement, has urgently implored international organizations to intervene and address this distressing situation.

December witnessed a series of enforced disappearances, extrajudicial killings, and a sustained crackdown on the peaceful March, a movement advocating for justice and accountability.

A detailed review presented by PaanK reveals alarming statistics regarding human rights violations in Balochistan. According to this data, the Pakistani army enforced the disappearance of 54 individuals from various regions, while 32 people were eventually released and reunited with their families after enduring prolonged forced disappearances.

PaanK highlighted two cases of extrajudicial killings in December. These included the tragic death of Sharif Bugti at the hands of FWO officials and the killing of 'Zahir son of Abdul Samad' by state-sponsored death squads.

The catalyst for the Long March against the Baloch Genocide, as emphasized by PaanK, stemmed from the tragic incident at 'Ban-e-Kandak' near Turbat. This event spurred mass protests following the custodial killing of Baloch Mulabakhsh. Despite facing obstacles and violent responses from authorities, the movement gained momentum and garnered support from various communities across Pakistan.

PaanK's report extensively detailed the harsh and uncompromising government response. This included the filing of multiple FIRs against human rights leaders and attempts to suppress protests by erecting barricades at many locations. Additionally, court orders for fair investigations and the suspension of officers involved in Balach's murder were left unimplemented.

Upon their arrival in Islamabad, PaanK's report shed light on further adversities faced by Long March participants, with over 200 people, including women and children, subjected to arrest, torture, and mistreatment. Nevertheless, the movement received substantial national and international public support.

In an appeal to international human rights organizations, PaanK urged these entities to rally global public opinion and hold the Pakistani army accountable for the ongoing atrocities.

"The situation in Balochistan remains dire as peaceful protesters persistently endure repression and the denial of fundamental rights. This appeal stands as a crucial demand to end atrocities and ensure justice for the Baloch nation," reiterated PaanK.

Concluding the report, PaanK emphasized, "The call for international intervention isn't solely for the present but marks a significant historical need to address the decades-long systematic atrocities, marginalization, and human rights violations faced by the Baloch nation. It's imperative."

PaanK’s December 2023 Report: Urgent Plea for Global Attention on Long March Against Baloch Genocide ★ Baloch National Movement This appeal stands as a crucial demand to end atrocities and ensure justice for the Baloch nation.

📢 Baloch National Movement USA Calls for Solidarity: Join the Peaceful Demonstration at the White House to Demand Justice for forcibly Baloch Missing Persons and Rights Violations

Dear fellow activists and supporters of the Baloch cause, Please join us in a public demonstration organized by the Baloch National Movement USA chapter. As we all know, the Baloch Missing Persons Long March is currently taking place in Islamabad, where families of the missing Baloch activists and students are demanding justice for their loved ones. To show our solidarity with their cause, we have decided to hold a demonstration here in the US. We must stand together and raise our voices for the Baloch people who are facing grave human rights violations. We request you join us in this peaceful demonstration and support the Baloch struggle. Let us unite in solidarity and make our voices heard.

📍 Place: in front of the White House
📅 Date & Time: Saturday, January 7th, 2024 - from 01 PM- 03 PM
Contact: +1 (703) 982-0329

Baloch National Movement(BNM) USA

https://twitter.com/BNMovement_/status/1740684434469507380

BNM Netherlands organized a protest in condemnation of the Baloch Genocide, Enforced Disappearances, and the recent mistreatment inflicted upon the families of forcibly Baloch Missing Persons by the Pakistani Police in Islamabad.

BNM Netherlands held a protest against Baloch Genocide, Enforced disappearances and the recent mistreatment to the families of Baloch Missing Persons at the hand of Pakistani Police in Islamabad 29 mins ago 29 mins ago BNM Netherlands, Protests BNM Netherlands held a protest against Baloch Genocide, Enforced disappearances and the recent mistreatment to the families of Baloch Missing Persons at the hand of Pakistani Police in Islamabad by BNM Netherlands 23views 986 986 points Gallery 13 im...

Acknowledging our enslaved position is the first step. Until we accept this harsh reality, we risk dwelling in the delusions of self-satisfaction while Pakistan continues to play with our human dignity, national survival, and identity.

Dr. Naseem Baloch

Striving for Independence and Justice in the Region - Speech by BNM Chairman at PTM Conference Collective Pursuit: Striving for Independence and Justice in the Region - Speech by BNM Chairman Dr. Naseem Baloch at PTM Conferencehttps://thebnm.org/chairp...

Collective Pursuit: Striving for Independence and Justice in the Region - Speech by BNM Chairman Dr. Naseem Baloch at PTM Conference

https://thebnm.org/chairperson/20148/

Video link: https://youtu.be/4h0rZPG8xqY

Ladies and Gentlemen,

I extend my sincere gratitude to the Pashtun Tahaffuz Movement (PTM) for extending an invitation to represent the Baloch resistance and the Baloch National Movement for Independence at this crucial conference.

The regions of Baloch, Pashtun, Sindhi, Kashmir, and Gilgit-Baltistan find themselves immersed in turmoil, where violations of human dignity and rights have sadly become commonplace. The Pakistani army and its secret agencies perpetrate mass massacres, forcibly disappearing thousands of individuals in front of helpless witnesses. These victims endure inhumane torture in Pakistan’s torture cells, resulting in numerous custodial deaths. Their bodies are callously disposed of in forests, deserts, or by roadsides, or worse, killed in staged encounters.

For two long decades, our people have suffered in the clutches of the army, leaving their families in perpetual agony. The Baloch, Pashtun, Sindhi, and Kashmiri nations all face unspeakable atrocities. In response, our mothers and sisters have bravely embarked on a long march, a peaceful protest against the ongoing Baloch genocide that has persisted for two decades. Pakistan, in its relentless pursuit to silence any voice raised for truth, employs violence, imprisonment, and killing. Here, also the participants of the long march when were imprisoned on reaching Islamabad, and forced to go back to Quetta.
Today, the veil of state oppression has been lifted as people courageously defy the fear of militarism, raising their voices collectively from cities to rural areas, plains to mountain ranges—a testament to our collective success and the defeat of our oppressors.

Ladies and Gentlemen,

As educated individuals, let us realistically assess our capacity to halt further bloodshed, curb human rights abuses, or compel the withdrawal of enemy troops to the barracks. Regrettably, the reality is harsh—we, as enslaved and colonized people, cannot fully achieve these goals through advocacy alone. While raising our voices may mitigate/reduce some atrocities, but complete eradication remains elusive. We are not free; we are subjugated, and our status can never be equal to that of our oppressors.

In this modern world, it is unfathomable/unacceptable for people to tolerate such atrocities against fellow human beings. We understand this reality intimately, as we are living through it. I have personally endured enforced disappearance twice, subjected to the most severe torture. This firsthand experience enables me to comprehend the atrocities inflicted by the Pakistani army on our people.

Acknowledging our enslaved position is the first step. Until we accept this harsh reality, we risk dwelling in the delusions of self-satisfaction while Pakistan continues to play with our human dignity, national survival, and identity.

Some may hope for a change—a revolutionary leadership, a new development agreement, but I find it impossible. Pakistan is not a nation-state born out of historical or cultural evolution; rather, it emerged from the partition of United India, leading to the historical destruction of the Baloch, Pashtun, Sindhi, and Kashmiri nations. Our true problem is not just human rights but national freedom. Until we achieve independence, human rights abuses, including enforced disappearances, will persist.

Ladies and Gentlemen,

Expecting justice within the Pakistani framework is a waste of time. The Baloch nation is resolute in its decision and path—freedom from Pakistan, even though we pay a heavy price for it. We harbour no illusions of justice within Pakistan's framework; it only exacerbates our problems. We must unite for our national survival with unwavering resolve.

The Baloch National Movement is open to a joint struggle with all subjugated nations. Our common enemy seeks to obliterate our national existence, and as oppressed nations, our unity can be a powerful force, allowing us to share our pain and problems. Together, our collective unity against this common enemy will ease our journey and intensify the challenges faced by our oppressors. Let us move forward, holding each other's hands.

Together, we become a formidable force that transcends borders and boundaries. Let our solidarity serve as a beacon of hope for a future where justice prevails, human rights are upheld, and the right to liberty and freedom is respected.

Thank you.

Paank's monthly human rights report reveals disturbing trends in Balochistan for November 2023

Saturday, December 9, 2023, | Ref: 87/ 2023

https://thebnm.org/paank/20136/

English Report PDF :
https://thebnm.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Paank-HR-Report-November-2023-Eng.pdf

Urdu Report PDF :
https://thebnm.org/urdu/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Paank-HR-Report-November-2023-Urdu.pdf

The recently released November 2023 human rights report by Paank presents a disheartening view of Balochistan, highlighting a significant increase in human rights violations. The report documented 13 extrajudicial killings and the forced disappearance of 62 individuals post their arrest by the Pakistani army, with a staggering 22 individuals released from torture cells during this period.

The distressing situation was underscored across various regions: 2 individuals from Sindh, 5 from Shaal, 17 from Kech, 2 from Lasbela, 14 from Awaran, 1 from Panjgur, 4 from Dera Bugti, 1 from Mastung, 3 from Khuzdar, 2 from Kharan, 1 from Chagai, 1 from Chaman, 1 from Sibi, 7 from Gwadar, and an individual from Naseerabad district faced enforced disappearances through illegal arrests by the Pakistan army.

The report outlined tragic incidents in Buzdad and Perandar in Awaran district, where intrusions led to the killing of two individuals within their homes. Furthermore, the Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD) was implicated in the deaths of three forcibly missing persons in a staged encounter in Khuzdar district. Additionally, false police encounter claims resulted in the deaths of seven disappeared individuals in custody within the Kech district.

The report highlighted the appalling events in Balgatar, Kech district, on November 19, 2023. This event marked a brutal escalation in the series of enforced disappearances in Balochistan. Three individuals from the same family—Shah Jahan, Nabi Dad, and Adil—were forcibly disappeared, placed in a rigged vehicle, and killed in a bomb blast. Investigations suggested complicity involving the Pakistan Army, the Police Counter Terrorism Department (CTD), and local operative Khalid Yaqoob in these heinous acts. The tragedy exposed systemic violations by state institutions and the orchestrated nature of extrajudicial killings and disappearances.

The disturbing trend continued in Turbat, Kech district, on November 28, 2023, when police presented the bodies of Saifullah, Shakoor, Abdul Wadud, and Balach—individuals who forcibly disappeared—as casualties of a confrontation. This revelation sparked vehement protests, particularly from the family of Balach, condemning the act as a severe case of extrajudicial custodial killings. The escalating misuse of power by the CTD, staging false encounters, has transformed it into a tool for violence, necessitating urgent disarmament to prevent further atrocities.

The report also sheds light on the plight of students, who face discrimination and enforced disappearances, turning educational institutions into military-controlled zones. Instances of unjustified force were observed at Lasbella University, where students were barred from bringing books and participating in academic discussions, culminating in the enforced disappearance of Sameer Baloch on November 17, 2023.

The gravity of the situation in Balochistan demands immediate international attention and accountability for those responsible for these gross human rights violations. Despite consistent efforts to raise awareness, the humanitarian crisis in Balochistan continues to be ignored, necessitating urgent intervention to safeguard the lives and rights of its people.

Baloch National Movement and its human rights department Paank are convening a seminar in Amsterdam on .

Speakers include Dr. Naseem Baloch, Dr. Ayesha Siddiqa, Afrasiab Khattak, Francesca Marino, Iman Mazari, Zar Ali Khan Afridi, Madame Zhaly Wali, and others.

The seminar aims to highlight ongoing human rights violations in Balochistan by the Pakistani state.

https://twitter.com/BNMovement_/status/1733500308184031378

BNM Report Exposes Economic Struggle in Balochistan's Border Trade

Tuesday, December 5, 2023, | Ref: 86/ 2023

Complete report – English

https://thebnm.org/departments/20122/

Complete report – Urdu

https://thebnm.org/urdu/welfare-department/3896/

The Baloch National Movement's Social Welfare Department released a revealing report highlighting the economic challenges faced by Balochistan due to border closures and trade limitations. The report delves into the historical context, emphasizing the impact of British occupation, subsequent territorial divisions, and the current state of neo-colonial suppression.

The report sheds light on the plight of the Baloch people, enduring a multifaceted assault on their identity, culture, education, and an escalating economic crisis within the Pakistani-occupied region. It highlights the absence of substantial industrial infrastructure in Balochistan, despite potential hubs like the Hub in Lasbela district, primarily employing non-locals, depriving Balochistan residents of employment opportunities.

Specifically focusing on the trade corridors along the western border, the report details key trade points such as Taftan, Mashkail, Abdoi, Pishin-Mand , reemdan, Kohak , Paroom , Pasabnadan , Gwatr and Kullani-Kuntani Border, underscoring the challenges faced by traders, including extortion, token systems, poor road conditions, and unpredictable closures. The report emphasizes the devastating impact of intermittent border shutdowns, leading to hunger and mass unemployment among the Baloch nation.

Furthermore, the report draws attention to the economic paralysis imposed upon Balochistan by the Pakistan army and local mafia, leaving the region vulnerable to famine and economic collapse should trade activities face sudden halts. It urges global awareness and advocacy for the Baloch nation's plight, emphasizing the urgent need for sustainable economic stability and humanitarian support in the region.

The Impact of the Closure of Border: Trade and Economic Blockade on the Baloch Nation

- ◄ Report by Baloch National Movement Social Welfare Department ► -

https://thebnm.org/departments/20122/

Report PDF - English :
https://thebnm.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Report-Closure-of-Border-December2023-English.pdf

Report PDF - Urdu :
https://thebnm.org/urdu/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Report-Closure-of-Border-December2023-Urdu.pdf

Before the British arrived in this region, the residents of United Balochistan enjoyed unrestricted movement and trade throughout the entire area. They led a comparatively prosperous life, considering the economic opportunities available during that time. However, this changed after the British occupation when Balochistan was divided into western, eastern, and northern regions, marking the end of Baloch centralism.

Eastern Balochistan underwent further division, with significant portions being allocated to Sindh, Punjab, and Pakhtunkhwa. In this report, we aim to shed light on the challenges the populace residing in Pakistani-occupied Balochistan faces.

In this neo-colonial system, there's a widespread assault on the Baloch people encompassing their identity, politics, culture, education, and an escalating economic crisis. Consequently, the Baloch are enduring one of the darkest periods in their history. Today, in this age of advanced technology, the people of Balochistan are in dire need of basic sustenance.

In Balochistan's controlled and suppressed economy, quantifying the multitude of challenges and hardships faced by the Baloch across various aspects of life proves difficult. However, the extent of oppression experienced by the Baloch people, entrenched within the colonial and Pakistani systems, is evident in their economic and social conditions. The absence of a recognizable industrial presence throughout Balochistan is striking. The largest industrial hub in the city of Hub within the Lasbela district hosts numerous factories. Unfortunately, instead of offering employment opportunities to the local Baloch populace, positions—from high-ranking roles to labor positions—are predominantly occupied by individuals brought in from cities like Karachi. The Baloch people are often deemed ineligible for employment, citing various excuses.

The Social Welfare Department of the Baloch National Movement has compiled a report aimed at comprehending the economic state of the Baloch nation. It's widely recognized that a nation's prosperity, peace, and overall development hinge on its economic stability. This report is intended to raise awareness among the region's residents and the global community, particularly those who advocate for humanitarian causes, peace, and welfare states. It sheds light on the impoverished conditions endured by the people of Balochistan due to Pakistan's occupation. The goal is to prompt understanding among the Baloch people about the challenges they face and encourage others to play a humanitarian role by advocating for the Baloch nation.

Trade Corridors of Balochistan

Balochistan spans a vast geographical area, sharing borders with Sindh, Punjab, Iran, and Afghanistan. The focus of the report under review specifically revolves around the trade corridors situated along the western border.

1. Taftan

Located in the Chagai District, Taftan shares a border with Mirjavah in West Balochistan. The livelihoods of the people in this region rely heavily on cross-border trade.

2. Mashkail

The Mashkail border serves as a connection between the Washuk district and the Sarawan region in western Balochistan, Mashkail is a desert region.

3. Abdoi

The Abdoi border serves as a link between the Kech district and Hung in western Balochistan.

4. Mand-Pishin

The Pishin border connects the Kech district with Pishan and Sarbaz in western Balochistan.

5. Reemdan Border

Connects Gwadar to Chabahar by land.

6. Kohak

A recognized trade corridor connects Panjgur with Sarawan.

7. Paroom

It connects the rural areas of Panjgur and Sarawan.

8. Pasabandan

Pasabandan is a natural harbor located west of Jamri. Iran aims to create a legal border trade center named 'Bazarcha' here to facilitate cost-effective and prompt border trade between the two Balochistan. Due to Pakistan's lack of interest, the project has remained stagnant for several years.

9. Gwatr

Gwatr, situated as a historic natural port, once played a significant role in hosting large commercial ships. In the past, it housed an Iranian customs office and was a vibrant hub of trade. However, over time, this once bustling natural harbor has declined to a small and uninhabited fishing port. Nonetheless, it remains of crucial importance to Iran's security interests towards the east. Adjacent to Gwatr lies the Pasabandan, renowned for its flourishing fishing harbor. In its heyday, the fishing industry thrived, with numerous large fishing launches and a multitude of small boats anchoring in the area.

10.Kullani/Kuntani Hoor

The primary hub for trading Iranian oil and other commodities by sea is Kullani, a village in western Balochistan. Thousands of speedboats ferry Iranian oil daily from Kullani to eastern Balochistan, where they unload the oil at various depots in Kuntani Hoor. Both Kullani and Kuntani are pivotal centers for the purchase and sale of Iranian oil.

Below are the difficulties faced by those involved in this trade.

1. Extortion:

One of the major challenges faced by those engaged in border trade is the extortion carried out by the state and its organized groups, depriving a significant portion of the business's profits from the people.

2. Token System:

The Pakistani army has imposed vehicle movement regulations through a token system under the guise of security concerns. However, this system has turned into a form of extortion. Despite initial assurances from the administration of no charges, individuals are being charged between 25,000 to 40,000 for a single token. These tokens are also utilized as bribes to individuals not involved in the trade, who then extort fees from others. Part of these extortion fees is given back to Pakistan Army officers either in cash or through facilitating their activities.

3. Poor Roads:

The condition of rough roads poses a significant hazard for those involved in cross-border trade via vehicles, often leading to accidents, especially during adverse weather conditions, causing loss of lives.

4. Firing of forces:

Incidents of firing by Pakistani and Iranian forces targeting cross-border trading vehicles are distressingly common, resulting in the deaths of several individuals every month.

5. Unpredictable Border Closures:

Although there are no official restrictions on this trade imposed by the Pakistani army and the state, intermittent and unannounced shutdowns disrupt this business. These abrupt halts significantly impact the livelihoods of those engaged in this trade, leading to hunger and widespread unemployment, with no viable alternative employment options.

This report from the Baloch National Movement underscores a critical issue—the complete economic paralysis of Balochistan, subject to the whims of the Pakistani army, mafia, and an unstable business environment. A sudden halt imposed by the Pakistani army could devastate the Baloch nation by triggering a self-inflicted famine and economic collapse.

End

Unveiling The Facts Of Balgatar Tragedy BNM Press Conference

The Pakistan Army's notorious practice of conducting a Kill-and-dump policy has resulted in the deaths of thousands of individuals who have been forcibly disappeared.

Unveiling The Facts Of Balgatar Tragedy BNM Press Conference | English BNM Press Conference: Revealing the Facts Behind the Balgatar TragedyEnforced disappearances in Balochistan are a grave issue, perpetuated by the Pakistan Ar...

Press Conference by BNM Reveals Pakistani Army's Responsibility in the Balgatar Tragedy

Monday, November 20, 2023, | Ref: 85/ 2023

https://thebnm.org/press-conferences/20117/

Complete Press Conference, Urdu:

https://thebnm.org/urdu/press-conferences/3877/

Complete Press Conference, English:

https://thebnm.org/press-conferences/20113/

Information Secretary of Baloch National Movement (BNM), Qazi Dad Mohammad Rehan, addressed a press conference shedding light on the Balgatar tragedy. The conference aimed to draw attention to the ongoing human rights violations and enforced disappearances in Balochistan, urging immediate international intervention.

During the press conference, it was revealed that three individuals from the same family, namely Adil son of Asa, Shah Jahan son of Asa, and Nabi Dad son of Liwari, lost their lives while in the custody of the Pakistani army. Additionally, Shaukat son of Lewari, Zaheer son of Lashkaran, Peerjan son of Lashkaran, and Ahmed Khan son of Shugarullah remain held by the Pakistan army.

Qazi Rehan expressed grave concerns regarding the lack of implementation of international human rights laws in Balochistan, despite promises of justice and freedom from the international community. He highlighted that Balochistan, along with Sindh, Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistani-occupied Kashmir, and Gilgit-Baltistan, faces severe civil rights violations and oppression within the state of Pakistan. Enforced disappearances, carried out under Pakistan's military "kill and dump" policy, pose significant challenges. Disturbingly, mass graves have been discovered in Balochistan, where unidentified bodies are laid to rest without proper verification.

The press conference further emphasized the tragic incident in Balgatar, where three youths from the same family were brutally murdered. Qazi Rehan disclosed that these individuals were among the seven forcibly disappeared children from August 2023, who were in the custody of the Pakistan army. They were placed in a vehicle and subjected to an explosion, which left their bodies in fragments.

Qazi Rehan condemned attempts by the Pakistani media to portray these youths as supporters of the Pakistan army. He clarified that these children were from impoverished families, who forcibly disappeared after being apprehended by the Pakistan army.

Responsibility for these human rights violations and enforced disappearances in Balochistan was squarely placed on the Pakistan Army, operating under the guise of the Frontier Corps (FC) and death squads. Additionally, the Counter Terrorism Department (CTD) of the police was accused of facilitating these crimes.

International organizations were urged to take immediate action to curb enforced disappearances in Balochistan, and journalists were requested to focus their attention on the grave human rights situation in the region. Humanitarian aid was also requested to address the atrocities committed by Pakistan. Considering the historical ties between Balochistan and its neighbors, their responsibility was to extend support during these challenging times.

In summary, the press conference shed light on the dire situation in Balochistan, highlighted specific cases of enforced disappearances, and called for urgent action and support from the international community in addressing these widespread human rights violations.