Will Balochistan's Protest March to the Army HQ Bring Change?
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Synopsis
A rising wave of unrest in Balochistan has prompted Jamaat-i-Islami's Maulana Hidayatur Rehman to threaten a protest march to the Pakistan Army HQ. If the federal government fails to enforce an eight-point agreement within six months, he warns of escalating protests. Discover the demands and issues plaguing this region.
Key Takeaways
- Planned protest march to Pakistan Army HQ by Jamaat-i-Islami.
- Eight-point agreement demands urgent government action.
- Concerns over enforced disappearances and lawlessness in Balochistan.
- Gwadar port operational issues linked to civic amenities.
- Call for recovery of missing persons and political prisoners.
Quetta, Aug 8 (NationPress) The Emir of Jamaat-i-Islami Balochistan, Maulana Hidayatur Rehman, has announced plans for a protest march to the Pakistan Army's General Headquarters if the federal government fails to fulfill an eight-point agreement within six months, as reported by local media on Friday.
During a press conference following a protest march from Quetta to Islamabad, Rehman declared the long march, which began on July 25, aimed at voicing opposition against ongoing injustices in Balochistan. These injustices include enforced disappearances, lawlessness, maltreatment at security checkpoints, unchecked operations by the Frontier Corps, border closures, and the dominance of the trawler mafia, according to a report by Pakistan's leading daily, Dawn.
Rehman emphasized, "If our demands are not met within six months, Jamaat-i-Islami will be forced to escalate protests, including a sit-in from Quetta to GHQ in Rawalpindi,” he stated.
He cautioned that the Gwadar deep-sea port will not become operational unless basic civic services like electricity, clean drinking water, healthcare, and job opportunities are provided to Gwadar's residents. He added that if the rising issues of the people continue to be overlooked, the government would have to “cross our bodies.”
The march advocates for the recovery of missing individuals, cessation of disposing of bodies in remote areas, release of political detainees, and granting the people of Balochistan full authority over their natural resources and coastal assets. Rehman criticized the provincial government for failing to represent Balochistan's populace.
He remarked that resolutions passed in the Balochistan Assembly lack real impact and insisted that it is imperative for the government to address the concerns of the people rather than ignoring them.
Furthermore, he mentioned that a jirga with various political and trade organizations will be convened to outline future actions if there is no progress in implementing the eight-point agenda.
Maulana Hidayatur Rehman also condemned the security measures in light of the government allocating PKR 80 billion for law enforcement to maintain peace. "These funds are not meant for indulgence but to fulfill obligations, which they have failed to do," he asserted, pledging to persist in advocating for the rights of Balochistan's people.
Point of View
It’s crucial to acknowledge the growing frustrations within Balochistan. The challenges faced by its people, including enforced disappearances and lack of basic services, demand immediate attention. The protests led by Jamaat-i-Islami reflect a broader discontent that must be addressed by the government in a transparent and effective manner.
NationPress
19/08/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the eight-point agreement mentioned?
The eight-point agreement includes demands for recovery of missing persons, cessation of enforced disappearances, release of political prisoners, and provision of basic civic amenities.
Why are protests escalating in Balochistan?
Protests are escalating due to ongoing injustices, lawlessness, and dissatisfaction with government responses to the people's needs.
What role does Jamaat-i-Islami play in the protests?
Jamaat-i-Islami, led by Maulana Hidayatur Rehman, is organizing protests to advocate for the rights and needs of the people in Balochistan.
What consequences did Rehman warn about if demands are not met?
Rehman warned that if their demands are not met, Jamaat-i-Islami would resume protests, including a sit-in from Quetta to Rawalpindi.
How is the provincial government responding to these issues?
Rehman criticized the provincial government for failing to represent the people's interests and for not effectively addressing the issues they face.
