Baloch National Movement Calls for End to Enforced Disappearances
Geneva, Switzerland – November 4
The Human Rights Department of the Baloch National Movement, known as Paank, has highlighted the serious human rights issue of enforced disappearances. They have urged Pakistan to cease this practice, hold those responsible accountable, and provide justice for the victims and their families.
This call to action follows the recent release of ten Baloch students who were forcibly taken from Rawalpindi and held in illegal custody by Pakistani forces. These students, who were studying at the National University of Modern Languages (NUML), were reportedly abducted during a raid by the Pakistan armed forces. The names of the missing students included Salim Arif, Balach Fida, Khuda Dad, Khalil Ahmed, Hammal Hassani, Babar Atta, Noor Muheem, Iftikhar Azum, and Ahssam.
In response to these events, Baloch students in Islamabad and Rawalpindi have boycotted classes and exams in protest. Prominent activist Mahrang Baloch described the situation as a severe form of psychological violence aimed at intimidating Baloch youth. She emphasized the need to end the profiling and abductions of Baloch students to ensure their right to education and participation in nation-building.
This incident underscores the ongoing oppression and discrimination faced by Baloch students in educational institutions. Enforced disappearances have created a climate of fear, hindering educational pursuits and the long-term development of Balochistan. Human rights organizations continue to advocate for student safety and stress the importance of dialogue and comprehensive solutions to address the deep-rooted issues affecting Balochistan.
Doubts Revealed
Baloch National Movement -: The Baloch National Movement is a group that represents the Baloch people, who live in a region called Balochistan, which is part of Pakistan. They work to protect the rights and culture of the Baloch people.
Enforced Disappearances -: Enforced disappearances happen when people are taken away secretly by authorities or groups, and their families don’t know where they are or what happened to them. It’s a serious violation of human rights.
Paank -: Paank is the Human Rights Department of the Baloch National Movement. They focus on protecting and promoting human rights for the Baloch people.
National University of Modern Languages -: The National University of Modern Languages is a university in Pakistan where students can learn different languages and cultures. Some Baloch students from this university were taken away during a raid.
Psychological Violence -: Psychological violence refers to actions that harm someone’s mind or emotions, like threats or intimidation. It can make people feel scared or stressed.
Human Rights Groups -: Human rights groups are organizations that work to protect people’s basic rights and freedoms, like the right to be safe and treated fairly. They often speak out against injustices and try to help those affected.