Baloch Leader Mehran Marri Speaks on Recent Attacks in Balochistan
London [UK], August 28: Following a series of coordinated attacks by the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) in Balochistan, which resulted in over 70 deaths, Baloch political leader Mehran Marri described the violence as a response to long-term oppression by Pakistan’s government.
Marri’s Statement
Mehran Marri, currently based in the UK, stated, “I think that this attack was inevitable. They [BLA] have carried out several attacks in the recent past. When you subjugate and vandalise the people’s nation, you will have reactions, repercussions, and consequences. This is what has happened in Balochistan’s liberation process.”
Details of the Attacks
The attacks targeted police stations, railway lines, and highways in Balochistan, marking one of the most widespread assaults by Baloch separatists in years. The BLA has been fighting for the secession of the resource-rich province and opposes major China-led projects in the region.
Criticism of Pakistani Officials
Marri criticised Pakistani officials, including Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, for downplaying the severity of the attacks. “This is how illiterate, unbothered, and unaware they are of the Balochistan cause,” Marri remarked.
Condemnation of Violence
While condemning the loss of lives, Marri emphasised that violence is a natural reaction to years of oppression. “We can’t justify violence, be it by the Baloch or by the occupying state of Pakistan. But sometimes you reap what you sow. That is what is happening in Balochistan right now,” he said.
Criticism of Pakistan’s Military
Marri was critical of Pakistan’s military, accusing it of targeting vulnerable populations instead of confronting Baloch fighters directly. He also criticised identity checks imposed on Baloch residents by Pakistani forces.
China’s Involvement
Regarding China’s involvement, Marri accused the Punjabi establishment of misleading Beijing into investing in Balochistan through the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) projects, which he described as unviable due to ongoing conflict.
Call for International Support
Marri concluded with a message of resilience, stating that the Baloch struggle for independence would continue despite the challenges. He called on India and other international actors to reconsider their positions on Balochistan.
Doubts Revealed
Baloch -: Baloch refers to people from Balochistan, a region in Pakistan. They have their own culture and language.
Mehran Marri -: Mehran Marri is a political leader from Balochistan who lives in the UK. He speaks out about issues affecting Baloch people.
Balochistan -: Balochistan is a large region in Pakistan. It has many natural resources but is also a place with conflicts and political issues.
Baloch Liberation Army -: The Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) is a group that fights for the independence of Balochistan from Pakistan. They sometimes use violence to make their point.
oppression -: Oppression means treating people unfairly and cruelly. In this context, it refers to how the Pakistani government treats the Baloch people.
UK -: The UK stands for the United Kingdom, a country in Europe. Mehran Marri lives there now.
Pakistan’s government -: Pakistan’s government is the group of people who run the country of Pakistan. They make laws and decisions for the country.
police stations -: Police stations are buildings where police officers work. They help keep law and order in a place.
railway lines -: Railway lines are tracks on which trains run. They are important for transportation.
highways -: Highways are big roads that connect cities and towns. They are used for long-distance travel by vehicles.
China’s involvement -: China’s involvement means that China is taking part in activities in Balochistan. This could be for economic or political reasons.
