Why are villagers in Balochistan protesting against indiscriminate firing by Pakistani forces?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Protests in Balochistan highlight human rights abuses.
- Indiscriminate firing by security forces raises alarm.
- Public resistance is being encouraged against state violence.
- Students are demanding accountability for missing individuals.
- Community concerns reflect a growing crisis in the region.
Quetta, Dec 11 (NationPress) A group of villagers from the Kech district in Balochistan have come together to protest against what they term the cruel practice of indiscriminate firing by Pakistani forces targeting local civilians.
The Baloch Women Forum (BWF) reports that the protests are calling for accountability for those responsible and an urgent cessation of these perilous actions.
This demonstration was triggered by an incident on December 8 in the Sahaki area of Balgatar, where security personnel from Pakistan opened fire on civilians, injuring a woman named Durdana Baloch.
The BWF criticized the ongoing trend of state violence in Balochistan, which includes enforced disappearances of Baloch women, destruction of villages, and indiscriminate fire upon civilians. They condemned these developments as detrimental to the human rights of indigenous populations, urging widespread public resistance against such policies.
The BWF further noted that Balgatar has already experienced forced evacuations in the name of security, challenges to women's safety, and now faces the horrific reality of being fired upon indiscriminately at night.
The organization has called for an end to the persistent atrocities committed by Pakistan against civilians in Balochistan, particularly in Balgatar, and is demanding immediate accountability for those involved.
In a related event, students at the University of Turbat in Kech held a protest rally on campus, demanding the swift recovery of three students—Noor Khan Nazar, Rahmat Halko, and Imran Taj—who were forcibly disappeared. According to The Balochistan Post, a significant number of students participated, showcasing their rising concern and fear within the academic community.
Student leaders reported that Noor Khan Nazar has been missing since December 6, Rahmat Halko since October 5, and Imran Taj since June 21. They noted that the authorities have provided no updates on their whereabouts, causing immense distress to families and fellow students, resulting in significant psychological trauma.
The protesters have warned that they will escalate demonstrations if the missing students are not found and are calling on authorities to ensure the safety and protection of the youth in Balochistan.