In a statement, the spokesperson for the Baloch National Movement declared August 14 as a Black Day for the oppressed nations within Pakistan. According to the spokesperson, the creation of Pakistan 77 years ago by colonial powers, driven by their own interests, has evolved into a significant threat to global peace, security, and humanity.

The spokesperson highlighted that for the Baloch, Pashtun, Sindhi, Kashmiri, and Gilgit-Baltistan communities, today is marked not by celebration but by grief and mourning. They asserted that only Punjab, which has historically suppressed the freedoms of these oppressed groups, experiences any joy on this day. The spokesperson emphasized that the other nations are detached from the so-called “Independence Day” as they continue to live under oppression rather than freedom.

Furthermore, the Pak Army annually attempts to hold Independence Day celebrations through intimidation and coercion. The spokesperson said that these efforts reflect the Baloch people’s growing disdain and animosity towards Pakistan.

The statement condemned Pakistan’s ruling authorities for maintaining oppressive policies throughout the past 77 years. The spokesperson accused the Paki establishment of exploiting Baloch resources and depriving the Baloch people of national autonomy, placing Balochistan directly under military control. The civil administration merely acts as a facilitator for the Army, with the occupied-Balochistan assembly serving as a puppet institution that obeys military orders. They said that thousands of Baloch individuals have been forcibly disappeared or killed over the years, and the Baloch people are routinely confronted with the grim task of burying their dead.

The BNM spokesperson said, “The Baloch nation must remain steadfast and resilient. We should keep the success of our struggle for national freedom in mind at all times. The day will surely come when the symbol of oppression, August 14, will be erased from the pages of history like a mistake, and oppressed nations will live with dignity in their free homelands.”

The Baloch Raaji Muchi convoy, organized by the Baloch Yakjehti Committee, has reached Turbat, marking a significant moment in the ongoing Baloch struggle for national recognition and autonomy. The arrival was met with a massive turnout, as thousands of men and women gathered for a major rally at Fida Shaheed Chowk.

At the rally, Dr. Mah Rang Baloch, the central organizer of the BYC, delivered a powerful address. She said that the Baloch people’s courage has rendered all repressive tactics ineffective, asserting that the Gwadar Raaji Muchi has ushered in a new chapter in the Baloch movement.

Dr. Baloch praised the Baloch nation’s resilience, saying that from Koh Suleiman to Sistan Balochistan, the response to the Baloch Raaji Muchi’s call was overwhelming. Despite facing tear gas and shelling, the Baloch maintained their determination, signaling both success and a promising future for their cause.

Dr. Baloch emphasized that the BYC represents the voice of the Baloch and is a crucial step toward national formation. She stressed that the struggle for the right to live and a brighter future for the new generation will not falter. “The Baloch will not retreat from their struggle and movement,” she said. “Kech is a land of love, affection, and martyrs.”

Sibghatullah Shahji, another key speaker, highlighted the intensification of oppression since July 27, which led to the martyrdom of three companions and injuries to many others. He pointed out that the movement, ignited by the extrajudicial killing of Balach, has evolved into a well-organized effort.

Sammi Deen Baloch, addressing the crowd, recalled that eight months ago, a body was placed at Shaheed Fida Chowk. She said that while the Baloch have consistently faced such brutality, each instance has sparked a new revolution. Sammi Deen expressed pride in belonging to a nation that does not fear sacrifice, despite ongoing attempts to suppress the movement.

She criticized the Pak Army’s use of force both in Islamabad and Gwadar, including shutting down networks and markets, cutting off water supplies, and imposing collective punishment. He concluded that the Gwadar Muchi demonstrated that the Baloch struggle cannot be stopped and emphasized the need for unity and organization to ensure the movement’s success.

The rally in Turbat, attended by a diverse group of participants, underscored the enduring spirit and determination of the Baloch people in their quest for justice and self-determination.