Are Enforced Disappearances in Balochistan Still Unresolved After 16 Years of Protests?
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Synopsis
The ongoing crisis of enforced disappearances in Balochistan has been spotlighted by the Voice of Baloch Missing Persons. Despite over 16 years of relentless protests and advocacy, the plight of missing individuals remains dire, calling for urgent political dialogue and action.
Key Takeaways
- Enforced disappearances in Balochistan continue despite years of protests.
- The VBMP plays a vital role in advocating for the missing.
- Political dialogue is essential for addressing the grievances of Balochistan.
- Recent incidents highlight the urgent need for action.
- Global awareness and intervention are crucial for justice.
Islamabad, Nov 17 (NationPress) The Voice of Baloch Missing Persons (VBMP) has brought to light that the crisis of enforced disappearances involving political activists, students, and other citizens in Balochistan persists, remaining unresolved even after 16 years of protests, sit-ins, and rallies.
As reported by local media on Monday, during a press conference, VBMP Chairman Nasrullah Baloch called on the state and various institutions to recognize that employing force, extrajudicial killings, and the forced disappearance of Baloch individuals will not rectify the prevailing issues in the region.
According to Pakistan's prominent daily, Dawn, Nasrullah Baloch urged for a political solution to the concerns of Balochistan's populace.
Accompanied by family members of the missing individuals, including VBMP General Secretary Hooran Baloch and activist Ghani Baloch, he noted that the organization's protest camp outside the Quetta Press Club has now completed 6,000 days.
He stated, "This camp has also been established in various regions of Balochistan, as well as in Karachi and Islamabad. It is recognized throughout Pakistan and globally as a symbol of peaceful resistance," as reported by Dawn. He added that over the past 16 years, the organization has conducted protests, seminars, and extensive marches from Quetta to Islamabad, both on foot and via train.
"Thousands of Baloch individuals have been forcibly disappeared, and many have been killed extrajudicially, yet the situation continues to worsen. We implore the state to cease the use of force in Balochistan. This is a political matter that must be resolved through dialogue," asserted Nasrullah Baloch.
He emphasized the need for all individuals to be treated in accordance with the law, the recovery of missing persons, and insisted that those facing charges be brought before the courts, urging a halt to extrajudicial detentions and killings.
On November 12, Paank, the Human Rights Department of the Baloch National Movement, reported that at least two Baloch civilians, including a minor, were forcibly disappeared by Pakistani forces in Balochistan.
Paank condemned the enforced disappearance of Tajah Bugti and his young son Mir Ahmed Bugti, who were abducted in broad daylight by Pakistan’s Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) and Counter Terrorism Department (CTD) personnel from the Dera Bugti district on November 11.
“The abduction of a father and his minor child demonstrates the alarming extent of state repression in Balochistan, where even children are not spared from the cycle of enforced disappearances,” stated Paank.
The rights organization held the Pakistani authorities and security agencies accountable for ensuring the safety and prompt release of both individuals. They called on the international community, human rights organizations, and the media to urgently acknowledge the ongoing policy of collective punishment against the Baloch populace.
Point of View
It's crucial to highlight that the plight of the Baloch people deserves our attention. The persistent issue of enforced disappearances is not just a local concern; it resonates on a global scale. We must support efforts for a peaceful resolution that acknowledges the rights and grievances of all citizens in Balochistan.
NationPress
17/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current situation regarding enforced disappearances in Balochistan?
The situation remains critical, with ongoing enforced disappearances of political workers and civilians, despite 16 years of protests and advocacy for their recovery.
Who is advocating for the missing persons in Balochistan?
The Voice of Baloch Missing Persons (VBMP) is at the forefront, highlighting the plight of missing individuals and demanding political solutions.
What actions have been taken by the VBMP?
The VBMP has organized protests, sit-ins, and awareness campaigns for over 16 years, including a continuous protest camp that has lasted for 6,000 days.
What recent incidents have been reported regarding forced disappearances?
Recently, two Baloch civilians, including a minor, were forcibly disappeared by Pakistani forces, highlighting the ongoing human rights violations in the region.
What is the call to action for the international community?
Human rights organizations and the international community are urged to take urgent notice of the enforced disappearances and advocate for the rights of the Baloch people.
