What Happened to the Baloch Youth? A Tragic Story of Protest and Suppression
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Synopsis
In a powerful display of resilience, families of the forcibly disappeared individuals in Islamabad continue their protest for justice, now in its fifth day. Despite oppressive measures from authorities, they remain united in their call for accountability. Join us as we delve into their struggle and the serious implications it holds for human rights in Pakistan.
Key Takeaways
- Protest Duration: Families have been protesting for five days seeking justice.
- Authorities' Response: Police obstruction and oppressive tactics have been reported.
- Baloch Yakjehti Committee: They are advocating for the rights of the forcibly disappeared individuals.
- Solidarity Needed: A call for support from human rights advocates and the public has been made.
- Ongoing Human Rights Concerns: The situation raises significant human rights issues within Pakistan.
Islamabad, July 20 (NationPress) Families of the forcibly disappeared individuals, including several leaders of the Baloch Yakjehti Committee (BYC), have been conducting a sit-in protest, blocking a road for a continuous five days outside the Islamabad Press Club.
On social media platform X, the BYC stated, "Today marks the fifth day of the ongoing sit-in protest by the relatives of forcibly disappeared persons and detained BYC leaders in Islamabad."
“Despite facing days of rain, extreme heat, and road blockades, these resilient families, which include women, children, and the elderly, have remained committed to their cause,” the BYC emphasized.
In an update shared on their social media, the BYC revealed that on this fifth day, the Islamabad police were actively obstructing the families from continuing their sit-in at the Islamabad Press Club.
“This follows a series of oppressive measures: roads sealed to limit access to the protest location, prohibition of tents despite harsh weather conditions, and instances of elderly women and children fainting due to the heat, while the arrival of police vehicles raises fears of forced deportation back to Balochistan,” the BYC lamented.
They further noted, “This is not merely a violation of the right to peaceful assembly, but a blatant attempt to suppress and silence those seeking justice.”
The BYC has called on human rights advocates, journalists, civil society, and concerned citizens to unite and amplify their demand for justice.
“These families have traveled from afar and are simply requesting what is rightfully theirs: freedom for the detained and accountability for the disappeared,” stated the BYC on X.
On July 19, the protest marked its fourth consecutive day. Since the protest started, the demonstrators - women, children, and elderly family members - have been denied the right to set up a camp, according to the BYC.
Nadia Baloch, sister of detained BYC Central Organiser Mahrang Baloch, pointed out that in this very city, “violent actors are welcomed and even financially rewarded by army personnel,” while Baloch elders face humiliation merely for demanding justice.
Another Baloch activist, Sahiba Baloch, urged all conscientious citizens, media members, and human rights defenders in Islamabad to show solidarity and support the families in their peaceful quest for justice.
Criticizing the Pakistani authorities, the BYC stated that the ongoing restrictions on the right to peaceful assembly, coupled with the unlawful detainment of BYC leaders, signify a systematic effort to silence Baloch voices.
The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) has also raised concerns regarding the treatment of “peaceful protesters” by the Islamabad police.
Point of View
I stand firmly with the families of the forcibly disappeared individuals. Their struggle for justice highlights the ongoing human rights violations in our nation. It is crucial that we support their right to peacefully assemble and demand accountability from authorities. The voices of the Baloch people must be amplified, and we must collectively advocate for their rights.
NationPress
20/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What sparked the protest by Baloch families?
The protest was initiated due to the forcible disappearance of Baloch individuals, including leaders from the Baloch Yakjehti Committee (BYC).
How long have the protests been ongoing?
The protests have been ongoing for five consecutive days as families demand justice for their missing loved ones.
What actions have authorities taken against the protesters?
Authorities have employed repressive tactics, including sealing roads, prohibiting tents, and actively obstructing the sit-in protest.
Who is calling for support for the Baloch families?
The Baloch Yakjehti Committee (BYC) has called on human rights defenders, journalists, and the public to stand in solidarity with the protesting families.
What has the Human Rights Commission of Pakistan said?
The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) has expressed concerns regarding the treatment of peaceful protesters by the Islamabad police.
