The three-day symbolic hunger strike organized by the Baloch Yakjehti Committee (BYC) in Turbat against what they call the unconstitutional detention of Dr. Mahrang Baloch, Shah Ji Sibghatullah, Beebow Baloch, and other imprisoned BYC leaders has concluded. The protest aimed to draw international attention to the ongoing human rights violations and illegal actions in Balochistan.
At the conclusion of the hunger strike, a significant press conference was held by Turbat Hankain, during which the spokesperson emphasized that the protest was a serious attempt to raise awareness about the unconstitutional actions in Balochistan among the international community and human rights organizations.
The spokesperson reiterated the commitment to continuing the peaceful protest until the detained BYC leaders are presented in court and released through legal and constitutional means. The hunger strike saw the participation of various political party representatives, including those from the National Party, Balochistan National Party (Mengal), civil society members, lawyers, human rights activists, local students, women, and media representatives.
The spokesperson expressed gratitude to all political parties, organizations, and individuals who showed solidarity, acknowledging that public support gives power to the voice of the oppressed. They also expressed hope for continued cooperation in the future.
Reports revealed that during the hunger strike, the government of Balochistan issued a threat alert, warning that BYC second-line leadership members, including Sammi Deen Baloch and Dr. Sabiha Baloch, could be targeted by the terrorist group Lashkar Khurasan. The alert also included a warning about potential bomb or suicide attacks on the hunger strike camp. Despite this, the camp continued peacefully, with participants rejecting the atmosphere of fear and asserting their right to protest.
BYC stated that while the government claimed to have provided security, the lack of seriousness and indifference from the local administration raised several questions.
Turbat BYC leaders also mentioned during the press conference that this hunger strike, held according to the schedule, could be extended to other districts of Balochistan to further raise awareness and mobilize global conscience regarding the unlawful detentions.
The press conference concluded with a statement that the youth of Balochistan are politically aware and see peaceful struggle for constitutional and human rights as their only path. They reaffirmed their commitment to continue utilizing legal, democratic, and diplomatic channels for the release of the detained leaders.
It is noteworthy that in response to the BYC’s hunger strike, the Counter Terrorism Department of Kech issued arrest warrants for Turbat civil society members Gulzar Dost and Waseem Safar.