Baloch Activist Condemns Pakistani Forces Amid Protests Against Atrocities

Baloch activist Manzoor Baloch denounced Pakistani security forces for mistreating peaceful protesters and suppressing press freedom. He highlighted the strategic importance of Gwadar Port and urged Baloch youth to be educated about their rights. The region remains fraught with human rights abuses by state entities.

Baloch activist Manzoor Baloch has sharply criticised Pakistani security forces for mistreating peaceful Baloch sit-in protesters who were demonstrating against state atrocities. Speaking at the Baloch Yakjhehti Committee's ongoing protest against enforced disappearances, Baloch condemned the detention of peaceful demonstrators and called out the Pakistani government's actions.

Baloch questioned the authorities: 'If Baloch Raaji Muchi has announced a peaceful protest, then why are you stopping us? What is your problem? If you fear us, that's why you raid the homes of journalists like Usman Khaweja, showcasing the sorry state of press freedom in Pakistan. The way Pakistani forces prevented injured people from reaching hospitals in Gwadar shows their contempt for us.' He also highlighted the disparity between how political rallies in Pakistan, such as those by the Pakistan People's Party (PPP), are well-funded and well-organised, underscoring Balochistan's vital economic role, particularly due to the Gwadar Port.

Baloch stated that Baloch issues have gained global attention because of the strategic significance of Gwadar Port. He pointed out that 'Whoever controls Gwadar will become a future superpower. The US understands this, which is why it seeks to limit Chinese access, placing us in the middle of a geopolitical struggle.' He added that Baloch people have been fighting since 1948, and critics who accuse them of opposing development should reconsider.

Baloch emphasized that the region's youth possess knowledge and wisdom and can excel if given the right platform. He called on the Baloch youth in Quetta to become educated about their rights and potentials. Balochistan has long been plagued by tensions and conflicts between Baloch activists and Pakistani security forces, witnessing numerous human rights abuses, including extrajudicial killings, enforced disappearances, and torture.

(With inputs from agencies.)