Pakistan: Balochs hold protest on Eid to highlight issue of enforced disappearances

Mama Qadir Baloch, a prominent figure with the Voice for Baloch Missing Persons (VBMP), announced the protest in a video statement.

He said, “The Baloch people are boycotting Eid celebrations due to the atrocities committed by Pakistan army and intelligence agencies for the last 15 years. Muslims across the world are celebrating the occasion while the Baloch are mourning.”

Mama Qadir, himself a victim of enforced disappearance, announced that the protest would take place in front of the Quetta Press Club on July 17 at 4 pm.

Families of the victims and members of civil society are expected to participate in the protest.

In a related incident, families of missing persons staged a sit-in protest at Shaheed Fida Chowk on Eid day.

The demonstration comes after a similar protest took place in front of the DC office a few days ago, which ended after the district administration gave assurances to the families.

The decision to protest on Eid underlines the deep impact of enforced disappearances on the Baloch community.

For years they have been demanding justice and information about their loved ones, who have allegedly been abducted by state forces.

These protests highlight ongoing human rights issues in Balochistan and demand international attention and intervention.

The boycott of Eid celebrations by the Baloch community is a stark reminder of their unresolved plight and their ongoing struggle for basic human rights.

The protest in Quetta aims to highlight these issues, in order to mobilize support and urgent action against enforced disappearances in the region.