While the sacred festival of Eid al-Adha was being celebrated around the world, anti-state repression protests erupted in Quetta, the capital of Balochistan, highlighting a stark contrast to the joyous mood elsewhere. As Muslims across Pakistan and the globe rejoiced, families in Balochistan spent Eid in deep mourning and protest, demanding the return of their missing loved ones and an end to state oppression.
Protest Rally in Quetta
In Quetta, the organization Voice for Baloch Missing Persons (VBMP) held a protest rally on Eid day. A large number of Baloch people, including women, children, and the elderly, took part and demanded the recovery of the disappeared.
They said, “Instead of Eid celebrations, Baloch families are spending the day in sorrow and protest.”
One speaker remarked, “While others are celebrating Eid with their families, Baloch families are on the streets seeking justice. Their pain is our collective responsibility.”
Pakistani Security Forces Blamed for Repression
Protesters held Pakistani security forces responsible for enforced disappearances and human rights violations. A VBMP leader stated, “Instead of upholding the law, security forces in Balochistan are violating it.” They called on the government to resolve the growing humanitarian crisis.
Coordinated Protests in Chagai
In Chagai district—specifically in Dalbandin, Nokundi, Yakmach, and Aminabad—protests and awareness programs were organized by the Baloch Yakjehti Committee (BYC) and families of the missing persons.
In Dalbandin, a protest march was held from the Arab Mosque to the Press Club, where slogans were chanted demanding the whereabouts of the missing Gulam Hazrat Baloch and Abdullah Baloch.
Eid Protest in Kharan with Slogan “Yes, We Are Mahrang”
In Kharan district, a major protest rally was organized by BYC on Eid's first day. Protesters carried posters with photos of the missing and demanded the release of BYC leaders. Children also participated wearing headbands inscribed with “Yes, we are Mahrang.”
BYC Statement on Eid
The Baloch Yakjehti Committee issued a statement titled “Eid and Baloch Grief,” saying:
“Why are your loved ones being forcibly taken? Are you safe? The answer is no, because you are a Baloch.”
They alleged that even Baloch children and the elderly are being subjected to enforced disappearances, torture, and killings. The statement called on the Baloch nation to unite against this campaign of oppression.
Key Messages and Appeals
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“No individual or tribe alone can resist the policy of repression. The entire nation must come together.”
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“Today is Eid, but for most Baloch families, it is a day of mourning. Their loved ones are missing, martyred, or victims of abuse.”
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The statement appealed to the public to visit the homes of victims to express solidarity and to educate children about the ongoing injustices.
