Balochistan Protests Continue Amid Deadlock and Accusations
Protests in Gwadar and other parts of Balochistan led by the Baloch Yakjehti Committee (BYC) remain unresolved as government negotiations have stalled. National Party President Dr Abdul Malik Baloch has intervened, urging both sides to seek a peaceful resolution through dialogue and reaching out to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and other key leaders.
Despite ongoing efforts to implement a recent agreement, officials report that both the government and BYC leadership are accusing each other of failing to uphold their commitments. Government representatives have claimed that the BYC has not halted protests in cities like Gwadar, Quetta, Noshki, Turbat, and Awaran, as agreed.
Dr Malik, who previously served as Chief Minister of Balochistan, has warned against using force, advising that all issues should be resolved through meaningful negotiations. He emphasized the need for restraint and cooperation from both parties.
BYC Challenges Government Claims
Dr Mahrang Baloch, BYC Organiser, has accused the government of marginalizing her and the youth, suggesting that suppression of peaceful activism drives individuals towards radical actions. She has challenged the Director-General of Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) to provide evidence for claims that the BYC is a “proxy for terrorist organizations.” Dr Mahrang has urged the DG ISPR to take the matter to court if such evidence exists.
For media release/press consumption.
BYC Organizer Dr. Mahrang Baloch Accuses Government of Marginalization and Intimidation of Activists
Dr. Mahrang Baloch, the organizer of the Baloch Yakjehti Committee (BYC), has said that the BYC is being deliberately marginalized, and…
— Mahrang Baloch (@MahrangBaloch_) August 6, 2024
She criticized the unfulfilled promises made to Gwadar residents following the port’s transfer to Singapore in 2007 and China in 2012, questioning the benefits of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) for local communities.
Balochistan Government’s Perspective
The Balochistan government has accused foreign elements of exacerbating the unrest, with Home Minister Mir Ziaullah Langove alleging that exiled Baloch leaders are inciting violence from abroad. He criticized these leaders for living comfortably in Europe while encouraging unrest in Balochistan.
Langove urged Baloch youth to reject foreign influences and focus on the province’s development and prosperity. He called for a united effort to address the region’s challenges and improve local conditions.
