The sit-in protest by families of forcibly disappeared Baloch individuals entered its 21st consecutive day in Islamabad on Tuesday, with demonstrators accusing state authorities of “apathy and indifference.”
According to participants, families of the missing, alongside members of the Baloch Yakjehti Committee (BYC), have continued their peaceful protest near the National Press Club despite searing heat and minimal facilities.
Elderly women, young people, and children remain camped on the roadside, while authorities have yet to grant permission for tents or shade structures. The road remains blocked, and protesters say they are under “constant pressure from police and the local administration to vacate the area,” without any alternative arrangements or basic facilities being offered.
“The silence of the state and the deliberate ignorance of the media speak volumes,” one protester said during a daily address. “Our voices are being suppressed not only by the state but also by the very media that claims to represent the people.”
Protesters have put forward two key demands to the government: the withdrawal of “false charges” against Baloch Yakjehti Committee (BYC) leaders and their release; and the recovery of all missing persons, with an end to enforced disappearances in Balochistan.
Despite growing frustration, demonstrators say they will not end their sit-in until their demands are met. In recent days, human rights activists and civil society members have joined the protest, raising alarm over “widespread human rights abuses” in Pakistan. Several participants have called on international media and human rights organizations to highlight their cause.
As of the 21st day, no government representative has formally approached the protesters for dialogue or negotiation.
“Our loved ones are missing. We will not leave until they are brought back,” an elderly protester said. “This is a matter of life, justice, and dignity.”