Balochistan National Party (BNP) Chief Sardar Akhtar Mengal has strongly condemned the harassment and threats faced by BNP workers and senior leaders in Khuzdar. In a statement on X, Mengal revealed that BNP members’ homes were being raided, and they were receiving direct threats from the current Deputy Commissioner, warning them against participating in the peaceful long march.
Mengal emphasized that the march is entirely non-violent and aims to demand justice for enforced disappearances and the inhumane treatment of Baloch women. He made it clear that any act of harassment, detention, or use of force against participants from any political party would not go unnoticed, and those responsible for issuing threats and using oppressive tactics would be held accountable. “We will not remain silent. We are marching for justice,” he asserted.
He further stated that obstacles such as containers placed on roads would not stop them. “Today, the Baloch nation will show the world what it means to harass our women and children,” Mengal declared.
Prior to the commencement of the Wadh-to-Quetta long march, Mengal took to social media, stating that despite their commitment to a peaceful demonstration, roads leading from Khuzdar to Quetta and other key entry points had been blocked with containers. “Let it be known that, by the will of God, no container can stop us,” he declared.
He reiterated that the Baloch nation is united and determined to show the world the consequences of harassing their women and children. “We will not remain silent,” he added.
Meanwhile, internet services have been suspended across Balochistan, affecting cities such as Quetta, Khuzdar, and Nushki. Mobile signals have also been restricted in several areas.
Despite the challenges, the long march led by Sardar Akhtar Mengal is progressing from Wadh to Quetta. Participants have been overcoming roadblocks and reached Khuzdar, where Mengal and other leaders addressed the gathering.
Mengal stated that their cause is no secret. “The state, its officials, institutions, ministers, and so-called governments initially started abducting our youth. I raised my voice and knocked on the doors of various parties, urging them to unite against this injustice. Otherwise, a day would come when even our women’s dignity would be at stake.”
He lamented that while Baloch youth were not safe, the elderly had also been humiliated. “We turned a blind eye when our elders’ turbans were thrown on these very roads. Today, Mahrang Baloch and Sammi Deen Muhammad are not just individuals; they represent the honour of Balochistan,” he said.
Mengal criticized the government for arresting women and children under the pretense of countering terrorism. “If you want to fight, go to the mountains. The young men of Balochistan are waiting for you there, but you lack the courage. Your wives won’t let you go, and your trousers get wet with fear. You only dare to oppress women and children,” he remarked.
He further questioned the state’s actions, stating, “We are not allowed to protest peacefully. We are not even permitted to shed tears for our martyrs. Our dignity is being torn apart—so what purpose does your government serve for us?”
The long march continues despite state-imposed restrictions, with BNP leaders and activists determined to highlight the issues of Baloch people on national and international platforms.