A wave of protests under the banner “Breaking the Silence: Standing Against Enforced Disappearances” has swept through various parts of Balochistan, as people join hands in hundreds and thousands to rally against enforced disappearances, violence, and alleged government inaction in the face of the humanitarian crisis unfolding in Balochistan. Organized by the Baloch Yakjehti Committee (BYC), these protests seek to draw attention to the worsening human rights situation and the reported rise in enforced disappearances across the region.
The latest demonstration was held on Friday in Nasirabad, where BYC’s Nasirabad Zone led a protest march from Baldia Ground to Allah Wala Chowk. The peaceful rally, however, faced challenges as police reportedly attempted to halt the demonstration before it reached the press club. Protesters allege that police responded with threats, harassment, and eventually physical force to disperse the crowd. Despite this, participants chanted slogans against the authorities and demanded the release of those they say are missing.
This campaign is part of BYC’s broader movement, which has already seen protests in Karachi, Hub Chowki, Khuzdar, Turbat, Panjgur, Kharan, Quetta, Nushki, Dalbandin, and Chagai. The BYC announced that its actions are in response to an increase in reported disappearances in recent months, which they argue reflects an escalation in government-backed oppression.