Protest erupts in Balochistan against ongoing enforced disappearances
Families in Balochistan Demand Safe Return of Missing Loved Ones Amid Protests
In Balochistan, Pakistan, protests have erupted in areas like Hub Chowki, Khuzdar, and Turbat as families demand the safe return of their forcibly disappeared loved ones. These protests include road blockages and hunger strikes, highlighting the issue of enforced disappearances.
Protests in Hub Chowki
In Hub Chowki, the families of Junaid Hameed and Yasir Hameed staged a three-day hunger strike outside the Lasbela Press Club. They were joined by relatives of Chakar Bugti, also abducted by Pakistani security forces. Despite local authorities' attempts to disperse them, the families remained firm in their demand for justice.
Details of Disappearances
Junaid Hameed, a 28-year-old employee of Otsuka Pakistan Limited, was abducted on October 8, 2024, near Bhawani Shah Pump. Armed men took him at gunpoint. Days later, on October 11, his younger brother Yasir was also forcibly disappeared in Kalat. Yasir had previously been a victim of enforced disappearance.
Protests in Other Areas
In Bhawani, Israr Baloch's family blocked the Karachi-Quetta-Makran Highway, causing a traffic jam. Mediation efforts failed to resolve the situation. In Kharan's Red Zone, families of Bilawal Baloch and Asim Baloch demanded their release. Bilawal's mother urged authorities to present her son in court if charged with any crimes.
Continued Protests in Turbat
In Turbat, Fida Wali Dad's family held a sit-in at Shaheed Fida Chowk, joined by relatives of eight other missing individuals. They demanded answers from authorities about their loved ones' whereabouts.
The protesters emphasized the need for the government to disclose the location and condition of the missing individuals. "If there are charges against them, they should be brought to court and tried according to the law," stated a family member.
Doubts Revealed
Balochistan
Balochistan is a province in Pakistan. It is known for its rich natural resources and diverse culture. However, it has also faced issues like political unrest and demands for more autonomy.
Forcibly disappeared
Forcibly disappeared means when people are taken away without their consent, often by authorities or groups, and their whereabouts are kept secret. This is a serious human rights issue.
Hunger strike
A hunger strike is when people refuse to eat to protest or draw attention to a cause. It is a non-violent way to show how serious they are about their demands.
Sit-in
A sit-in is a form of protest where people sit in a place and refuse to leave until their demands are heard. It is a peaceful way to show disagreement or demand action.
Highway blocked
Blocking a highway means stopping traffic on a road to protest. It is done to get attention from authorities and the public about an important issue.
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