Baloch voices echo in Geneva against Pakistan
Geneva, March 27
The Baloch National Movement organised its 11th International Conference in Geneva on the sidelines of the 61st session of the UN Human Rights Council, drawing attention to the ongoing human rights situation in Balochistan.
The conference focused on highlighting alleged human rights violations in the region and raising concerns over the lack of international accountability. Activists and speakers urged the global community to take cognisance of the situation.
Participants said that March 27 is observed by Baloch activists as a day marking what they describe as the "forced occupation" of Balochistan by Pakistan in 1948. They alleged that since then, the people of the region have faced sustained repression.
Speakers at the conference claimed that hundreds of youths, including students and political activists, have been subjected to enforced disappearances, torture, and killings by Pakistani security forces--allegations that Pakistan has repeatedly denied in international forums.
The Baloch National Movement called on the international community to intervene and ensure accountability, while advocating for what it termed the right of the Baloch people to freedom and self-determination.
— ANI
Reader Comments
It's heartbreaking to read about the alleged disappearances and torture. While Pakistan denies it, where there's so much consistent smoke, there is usually fire. The UN needs to conduct a proper, impartial investigation. 🇺🇳
Pakistan's track record on human rights, especially in regions like Balochistan and PoK, is very poor. The world sees their double standards. Glad the Baloch voices are being heard in Geneva. More power to them! 💪
As an Indian, my heart goes out to the Baloch brothers and sisters. We understand the pain of oppression. However, while we support their right to be heard, we must be careful that our own media's coverage remains objective and doesn't seem like it's just an anti-Pakistan narrative.
The Baloch struggle is a reminder that forced integration never works. The right to self-determination is a fundamental principle. Hope the UNHRC takes concrete action and doesn't let it be just another conference with no follow-up.
The allegations are grave. Enforced disappearances are a crime against humanity. Pakistan must allow independent monitors into Balochistan if it has nothing to hide. The silence from many powerful nations is deafening.
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