Jamal Baloch Highlights Human Rights Violations in Balochistan
Geneva, Switzerland
Jamal Baloch, the Media Coordinator of Paank, the human rights wing of the Baloch National Movement, addressed the issue of enforced disappearances and extrajudicial killings in Balochistan during the 57th session of the Human Rights Council. He shared his personal experience as a victim of enforced disappearance, describing it as a lifelong tragedy.
Baloch accused Pakistani forces of using brutality to silence dissent, stating that these disappearances are part of a larger crackdown on those demanding autonomy. He highlighted the fear instilled in local communities and the erosion of trust in state institutions.
He recounted witnessing his father’s abduction at the age of 13 and his own disappearance at 17 for speaking out against human rights abuses. Baloch emphasized the plight of the Baloch people, who have become a minority due to occupation and exploitation by Pakistan.
He concluded by condemning Pakistan’s attempts to conceal its crimes while continuing to oppress those fighting for justice in Balochistan.
Doubts Revealed
Jamal Baloch -: Jamal Baloch is a person who works as a Media Coordinator for an organization called Paank. He is speaking out about issues affecting his community in Balochistan.
Enforced Disappearances -: Enforced disappearances happen when people are taken away secretly by authorities or groups, and their whereabouts are not revealed. This is a serious human rights issue because families do not know what happened to their loved ones.
Balochistan -: Balochistan is a region in Pakistan. It is known for its rich natural resources but also for conflicts and issues related to human rights.
Human Rights Council -: The Human Rights Council is a group that works under the United Nations to protect and promote human rights around the world. They discuss and address issues like enforced disappearances.
Paank -: Paank is an organization that works to raise awareness about the issues faced by the Baloch people. They focus on human rights and the challenges in Balochistan.
Pakistani Forces -: Pakistani forces refer to the military and security agencies of Pakistan. In this context, they are accused of being involved in enforced disappearances in Balochistan.
Dissent -: Dissent means to disagree or have different opinions, especially against the government or authority. In Balochistan, people who dissent may face harsh actions like enforced disappearances.
Minority -: A minority is a smaller group within a larger population. In Balochistan, the Baloch people feel like a minority because they believe their rights and voices are not being respected.
