Author: Hakeem Wadhela
On November 23, 2023, the Counter Terrorism Department (CTD) of the Pakistani police claimed to have killed four individuals linked to Baloch armed groups in Turbat, Balochistan. However, it quickly became evident that these victims, identified as Balach Mola Baksh, Saif Baloch, Shakoor Baloch, and Wadood Baloch, were previously abducted by the CTD, raising questions about the authenticity of the encounter.
The CTD, known for its involvement in fake encounters, has repeatedly targeted individuals already in their custody, particularly focusing on youth and student activists in Balochistan. The Pakistani state relies on such acts of violence to silence Baloch voices, often using federal and Balochistan ministers to endorse the questionable claims made by the CTD.
The incident on November 23 triggered a strong response in Balochistan, as people from diverse backgrounds rallied around the family of Balach Mola Baksh. Balach, a student and part-time tailor, was abducted on October 29, 2023. His family initiated a sit-in protest, demanding a fair trial for the CTD officers responsible for his death.
Despite threats and attempts to bribe the family and protesters, they stood firm on their demands, turning the protest into a symbol of resistance for the entire Baloch society. Balach’s body was laid to rest on the eighth day of the protest, and afterward, the protesters announced a long march to Quetta, the capital of Balochistan.
The march received overwhelming support from Baloch communities, countering the Pakistani government’s attempts to portray it as a threat to national security. However, government representatives like Jan Achakzai and Sirfaraz Bugti consistently justified the actions of the CTD, casting the Baloch Yakjehti Committee as supporters of terrorism.
These representatives, including interim Prime Minister Anwar Ul Haq Kakar, seemingly serve the interests of the Pakistani military establishment. Regardless of the severity of actions taken by security forces, they continue to endorse and justify them, labeling any opposition as a threat to national stability.
The Pakistani military establishment’s disregard for Baloch lives and human rights is evident. Their focus appears to be on exploiting Balochistan while suppressing the masses through any available means. Paid representatives like Sirfaraz Bugti and Jan Achakzai play a role in disseminating an anti-Baloch narrative, fueling lies and hatred against the Baloch people and their ongoing struggle.
However, what the Pakistani state fails to comprehend is that the Baloch masses remain unwavering in their struggle against injustices and oppression spanning seven decades. Despite relentless propaganda, the Baloch commitment to ending the darkness of barbarity and violence remains steadfast.
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of The Balochistan Post or any of its editors.