BSC Punjab Condemns Allegations as Bid to Hinder Baloch Education

The Baloch Students' Council Punjab denounces allegations against members, labeling them as tactics to obstruct Baloch students' education. They emphasize that these claims aim to create fear and intimidation, deterring educational progress. The council urges action against systemic repression and discrimination faced by Baloch students.

The Baloch Students' Council (BSC) Punjab has firmly denounced the allegations aimed at its members, arguing that these accusations form part of a broader strategy designed to hinder access to education for Baloch students. According to a report by The Balochistan Post, the council reiterated its commitment to supporting educational challenges and career counselling.

BSC officials contended that associating student organizations with armed factions represents a deliberate attempt to intimidate Baloch students, cultivating an environment of fear and discouragement. They highlighted that these actions seem crafted to mentally and physically stress students, further obstructing their educational journey.

A BSC spokesperson underscored the systemic barriers confronting Baloch students, who make up less than one percent of the student body in Punjab and federal areas, yet have been subjected to repressive measures. The past year has apparently witnessed a troubling pattern, with nearly ten cases of enforced disappearances or raids reported on student accommodations.

As recently as this period, reports surfaced of ten Baloch students vanishing in Islamabad, coupled with an abduction case from Punjab University, according to The Balochistan Post. The council has cautioned that such baseless allegations could be used to rationalize enforced disappearances, making the state accountable for any further coercive acts against students.

Vowing to protect its members' safety and future, the council emphasized its resilience against intimidation. These occurrences highlight the systematic oppression and prejudice confronting Baloch students across educational institutions, fostering a climate of fear within the region. The Balochistan Post noted that calls for urgent intervention continue amidst persistent human rights violations impacting the broader Baloch community.

(With inputs from agencies.)