During the 58th United Nations Human Rights Council Session in Geneva, Faheem Baloch, Foreign Secretary of the Baloch National Movement (BNM), fervently spoke against human rights abuses in Balochistan. He condemned the recent detentions of several activists, including Mahrang Baloch and Sammi Deen Baloch, asserting that the BNM’s mission at the UN is to shine a light on the ongoing violations in the region.
Baloch recounted a disturbing incident in Quetta City, where 13 bodies were recovered and hastily buried without family consent. Following protests from grieving families demanding their rights to properly identify and bury their loved ones, Pakistani security forces responded violently, opening fire on the demonstrators and killing three individuals. Several human rights defenders were arrested, magnifying concerns regarding their safety and treatment in custody.
Baloch called upon international entities and human rights organisations to join their cause in voicing opposition to the cultural and civil tragedies afflicting Balochistan. Previous protests aimed at vocalising the region’s systemic marginalisation have resulted in pronounced crackdowns, particularly on notable Baloch figures.
As the Baloch people face relentless violations—including killings, sexual violence, and forced displacements—Faheem Baloch expressed frustration at the lack of global attention despite Balochistan’s wealth of natural resources providing negligible benefits to local communities. Freedom of expression and assembly is continuously suppressed, leaving the plight of Baloch activists largely unheard on the world stage.
At the UN Human Rights Council, BNM’s Faheem Baloch condemned human rights violations in Balochistan, particularly the detentions of activists like Mahrang Baloch. He detailed tragic incidents, including families denied the true burial of their loved ones, while highlighting the brutal response of security forces during peaceful protests. Baloch urged the international community to raise awareness and advocate for the rights of the Baloch people, who continue to face significant repression despite their region’s rich resources.
In summary, during a pivotal UN session, Faheem Baloch highlighted egregious human rights violations in Balochistan, particularly focusing on the harsh treatment of activists and families seeking justice. The call for international support against these abuses emphasises the ongoing struggle for rights and freedom in a region beset by violence and oppression. The cry for help resonates beyond borders, urging the global community to take notice and act.
Original Source: www.tribuneindia.com
