Large-scale protests have been launched against enforced disappearance of Baloch people in Pakistan. Protests have been launched in Gilgit-Baltistan. Rallies were taking out London, Karachi as well as Islamabad.
People across all ages protested against the disappearance of youth. Mama Qadir Baloch, Baloch human rights activist, told CNN-News18 that Pakistan army and several Pakistani agencies like the Pakistan Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD) and Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI).
He also claimed that 68,000 Balochs are currently missing. He said Balochs kept in Pakistani jails are treated in an inhuman manner. Mama Qadir said international community needs to stand beside Baloch people.
Baloch people demanded that the government in Pakistan set up commission to probe crimes against them.
Pakistan also banned donations to the protesters and barred protesters from receiving comforters, blankets and food to the Balochs who took out a rally in Islamabad. The protesters said that since the state is unable to tolerate a peaceful protest, there should be concerms regarding how they treat Balochs in Balochistan.
Caretaker Prime Minister Anwar-ul-Haque’s remarks regarding Baloch people where he asked people protesting against Pakistan government to join militancy has also upset the community.
Baloch say this is undermining their democratic rights and attack on those who are standing in solidarity with them.
Meanwhile, Islamabad police thrashed Baloch protesters who took out the ‘March Against Baloch Genocide’ rally. They were also barred from visiting the camp of missing persons.
People familiar with the developments told CNN-News18 that many young Balochs were arrested and were injured by tear gas shelling and violence.
“We are being treated worse than animals. Will the world raise its voice for us against this barbarism?” Baloch activist Mahrang Baloch said.
The sit-in which entered its 25th day on Wednesday and is aimed highlighting the broader issue of enforced disappearances in the region. The demonstration was launched from Turbat as a long-march to Islamabad.
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