Baloch Yakjehti Committee’s Call to Action: A Mass Protest Against Enforced Disappearances
The Baloch Yakjehti Committee (BYC) is setting the stage for a pivotal public seminar aimed at shedding light on the widespread issue of enforced disappearances and state repression faced by the residents of Balochistan. This gathering, poised to take place at Shaheed Fida Chowk in Turbat on Sunday at 4:30 PM, seeks to unite voices against what many perceive as a siege on their rights and freedom.
A Cry for Justice
The BYC’s rallying cry, "We are all prisoners," illustrates a dire situation where the collective trauma of the Baloch people is palpable. This sentiment resonates deeply with many as they echo concerns over the ongoing violence and the impact it has on their communities. The BYC has invited citizens from Turbat, Gwadar, and Dasht, urging them to converge in large numbers. Their objective is to amplify the message that the suffering endured by the Baloch people is not just individual pain; it is a shared burden that demands collective action.
Personal Stories of Loss and Courage
The plight of activists like Mahrang Baloch encapsulates the human toll of this crisis. Having discovered her father’s tortured body as a teenager, Mahrang has emerged as a poignant symbol of resilience in Balochistan. Her story is but one of many, underscoring the loss of youth and companions to enforced disappearances. The BYC highlights this heartbreaking reality, stating, "Every day, we are losing our youth… thrown into dungeons far from their homeland."
Such testimonials are not merely narratives; they form a collective memory that binds the Baloch community. Amidst intimidation and fear, families continue to push back, demanding justice for their lost loved ones.
A Pattern of Systematic Repression
This mass protest is not an isolated event but part of a broader struggle against a deeply entrenched pattern of repression. Reports from local and international human rights organizations spotlight the concerning trends of extrajudicial killings, arbitrary arrests, and harassment of journalists in Balochistan. The BYC calls for an urgent need to address this systemic violence that sees entire families devastated by enforced disappearances. The visible anguish of mothers leading protests, enduring hunger strikes, and sit-ins highlights the relentless quest for justice that refuses to wane.
Women’s Empowerment in the Face of Adversity
In a landmark event in December 2023, the resilience of Baloch women came to the forefront as they led a historic march from Balochistan to Islamabad, covering over 1,600 kilometers. This unprecedented act in a conservative society exemplifies the strength and determination of women in Balochistan to fight against oppression. Their courage expands the narrative of resistance, proving that the desire for dignity and justice transcends geographical and cultural boundaries.
The Urgency of Unity
BYC’s message to the Baloch people emphasizes that "history always favours resistance." The committee’s call for unity reflects a crucial understanding that collective action is not only needed but also vital for the future of Balochistan. The anguish of the past must transform into a united front for safety and dignity on their sacred land.
As Balochistan continues to grapple with the painful legacy of enforced disappearances and state violence, the upcoming public seminar stands as a beacon of hope for many. It is an opportunity not just to mourn the losses but also to rise together against the injustices that have permeated their lives for far too long.
