A demonstration was organized at Liberty Chowk, Lahore, by the Baloch Yakjehti Committee (BYC) Lahore. The protestors expressed their concerns over the recent military operations in Dera Bugti, the prevailing situation in Lyari, and the death of Kalat-based football player, Ejaz Baloch, who they claim was killed in a ‘fake’ encounter by the Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD).
Protestors highlighted their concerns over what they term as the prolonged siege of Dera Bugti by security forces, alleging the burning and ransacking of homes and abductions of residents. They claimed the area has been under siege for two weeks, with telecommunications including internet services reportedly being shut down, making it challenging to obtain a comprehensive view of the situation.
The demonstrators condemned the death of Ejaz Baloch, asserting that this is not an isolated case and accusing the CTD of being a state tool perpetuating violence against the Baloch populace in fabricated encounters.
Concerns were also raised over the state of Lyari, a region significant for its contributions to literature and art and predominantly populated by the Baloch. The protestors allege a deliberate and planned conspiracy aimed at segregating Lyari from Balochistan through the re-emergence of gang wars, with the intent of eroding the cultural and social fabric of the region.
In conclusion, the protestors called for Baloch unity and collective resistance against what they perceive as systemic oppression, emphasizing the need to preserve Baloch identity and existence. They highlighted that the purported oppressive tactics pose a threat to the Baloch populace across various regions, from Derajat to Lyari.