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BYC demands restoration of services & peaceful protests in Gwadar

The Baloch Yakjehti Committee has issued a new statement concerning the ongoing Baloch Raaji Muchi sit-in in Gwadar, emphasizing that the Paki establishment has shown no genuine interest in negotiating. The committee says that, while negotiations are underway, the Pakistan Army is employing force across Pak-occupied-Balochistan, particularly in Makran, where plans are reportedly in place to seal the region and exacerbate suffering through violence and deprivation. The committee has denounced these actions as part of a broader strategy of intimidation and harassment.

According to the communiqué, the BYC says that the current local officials, including the Deputy Commissioner of Gwadar, lack the authority to engage in serious negotiations. The statement calls for negotiations to be led by individuals with real power to effect change.

The committee has also demanded the restoration of internet and network services in Gwadar and Makran before any further negotiations take place.

BYC Issues Statement

The communiqué specifies that there will be no shutter-down or wheel-jam strikes in POB without a direct call from the committee. It also highlights the recent actions of the Pak military and intelligence agencies in Gwadar, which have used force to close shops, markets, and roads, causing significant hardship for residents. The committee urges the public to support local shopkeepers and assist in reopening businesses and markets. Shopkeepers are being asked to resume their operations immediately.

Protests continue in various regions, including Gwadar, Quetta, Panjgur, Nushki, Karachi, and Turbat. The communiqué confirms that in these areas, there will be no additional shutter-down or wheel-jam strikes, only ongoing sit-ins.

Furthermore, the BYC has instructed to closely monitor the activities of Army intelligence officials who are infiltrating protests disguised as ordinary citizens to incite violence. The BYC has been advised to maintain a public-friendly approach during protests and sit-ins, ensuring that these events remain peaceful and do not cause undue inconvenience.

The statement concludes by reaffirming that the central sit-in organized by the BYC will continue in Gwadar, and any negotiations will be held exclusively at this location.

India’s Olympic journey

The Olympic Games are being held in Paris from July 26, 2024, to August 11, 2024. During this period, around 10,500 athletes from around the world are competing for Olympic medals in 329 events. The Paralympic Games will also take place in Paris from August 28 to September 8, where 4,400 athletes will compete for medals in 549 events. While 184 countries are sending their athletes to the Paralympics, 206 countries are participating in the Olympic Games this time.

Indian athletes are showcasing their remarkable talent at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. So far, India has won three bronze medals at the Paris Olympics. Swapnil Kusale has won a bronze medal for the country in the 50-meter (men’s) rifle category. Manu Bhaker made history by winning India’s first medal at the Paris Olympics, raising the hopes of Indians even higher. A total of 117 Indian athletes, including five reserves, are in the race for medals at the Paris  Olympics 2024, which runs from July 26 to August 11. Manu Bhaker and Sarabjot Singh also claimed a bronze medal in the 10-meter air pistol mixed team event at the Paris  Olympics 2024.

History Of The Olympic Games

The history of the Olympic Games is very old. The ancient Olympic Games were held 1200 years ago among warrior-athletes. In ancient times, sports developed through competitions among warriors during periods of peace. Initially, running, boxing, wrestling, and chariot racing were part of military training. The warriors who performed the best in these activities would showcase their prowess in competitive sports.

In ancient times, the Olympic Games were held in Athens, the capital of Greece, in 1896. The name “Olympics” comes from being held on Mount Olympia. Athletes from states and cities participated in the Olympics. The popularity of these games was such that even wars between cities and states were suspended during the Olympic Games.

In the Olympic Games, the world’s best athletes represent their respective countries, and those who make it to the podium are awarded gold, silver, and bronze medals in that order. The Olympic flag features five rings in blue, yellow, black, green, and red. These five rings symbolize the interconnectedness of the five continents: Africa, the Americas, Asia, Europe, and Oceania. The flag was designed by Pierre de Coubertin in 1913.

The Olympic Games are the world’s largest sporting competition, where the best athletes from around the globe participate and represent their countries. The Olympics are held every four years, and this period is known as an Olympiad. The International Olympic Committee (IOC) oversees the Olympic Games.According to information, the Olympic Games were first held in 1896 in Athens, the capital of Greece. Since then, the games have been held every four years, except for 1916, 1940, and 1944, when they were not held due to World War I and World War II.

FRANCE – JULY 26: Members of Team India wave their national flags on a boat on the River Seine during the opening ceremony of the Paris 2024 Olympic Games on July 26, 2024 in Paris, France.

India’s Olympic Journey

India first participated in the Olympic Games in 1900, with the sole athlete Norman Pritchard winning two medals in athletics—both silver—making India the first Asian country to win an Olympic medal. The country sent its first team to the Summer Olympics in 1920 and has participated in every Summer Games since. India has also taken part in several Winter Olympic Games starting in 1964. Indian athletes have won a total of 38 medals, all in the Summer Games. For a period, the Indian men’s field hockey team dominated Olympic competition, winning eleven medals in twelve Olympics between 1928 and 1980. This streak included eight gold medals, six of which were won consecutively from 1928 to 1956.

Since its debut at the Paris Olympics in 1900 with just one participant, India’s Olympic journey has undergone significant changes. A historic moment came in the 1920 Antwerp Games when India sent its first official team, marking a century of remarkable achievements.

At the Paris 1924 Olympics, India made its debut in tennis, with five players participating in singles and doubles events. Following this, the Indian men’s hockey team delivered a remarkable performance at the Amsterdam 1928 Olympics, winning their first Olympic gold medal under the leadership of the legendary Dhyan Chand. Notably, the hockey team scored 29 goals and did not concede a single goal throughout the tournament, setting a high standard on the international stage.

In the 1930s and 1940s, under the leadership of the great player Dhyan Chand, the Indian men’s hockey team rose to prominence, achieving an unprecedented three consecutive gold medals at the Amsterdam 1928, Los Angeles 1932, and Berlin 1936 Olympics. This solidified India’s reputation as a leading hockey powerhouse in the world.

India’s Olympic journey post-independence began with the London 1948 Games, where the nation fielded its largest contingent yet—86 athletes across nine sports. The Indian hockey team continued its dominance, securing its fourth Olympic gold and introducing a new star, Balbir Singh Senior.

The Olympic Legacy

At the Helsinki 1952 Olympics, wrestler K.D. Jadhav made history by winning India’s first individual Olympic medal, a bronze. In Mexico City 1968, the hockey team won a bronze medal, marking a deviation from their usual top-two finishes. India repeated this achievement at the Munich 1972 Olympics.In Atlanta 1996, tennis star Leander Paes won a long-awaited bronze medal in men’s singles, while four years later in 2000, weightlifter Karnam Malleswari made history as the first Indian woman to win an Olympic medal with her bronze.

The Beijing 2008 Olympics was a memorable moment for India when shooter Abhinav Bindrawon the country’s first individual gold medal in the 10-meter air rifle event, setting a new standard in Indian Olympic history. Boxer Vijender Singh and wrestler Sushil Kumar also won bronze medals, marking India’s first multi-medal performance since 1952.

At the 2012 London Olympics, Saina Nehwal won India’s first Olympic medal in badminton. Sushil Kumar won his second Olympic medal, and Gagan Narang, Vijay Kumar, Mary Kom, and Yogeshwar Dutt contributed to India’s total of six medals, which was the highest at that time.

At the Rio 2016 Olympics, P.V. Sindhu and Sakshi Malik were India’s only medalists, marking the first time that all medals won by India were secured by female athletes.

The Tokyo 2020 Olympics proved historic for India, with a total of seven medals won. The men’s hockey team ended a 41-year medal drought with a bronze medal, while the women’s team achieved its best-ever fourth place. Neeraj Chopra won India’s first track-and-field gold medal in javelin throw, bringing a spectacular end to the campaign.

In the Paris Olympics 2024, India has sent its largest-ever contingent of 117 athletes across 16 different sports, including 70 men and 47 women. These athletes will compete in 69 events and have the opportunity to win a total of 95 medals, with three bronze medals already secured. Supported by a substantial funding of over ₹470 crores from the government, Indian athletes are striving to make a lasting impression on the global stage with their best performances.

Karachi police crackdown on Baloch protest; detains over 50 in brutal raid

A police raid on a Baloch Raaji Muchi organized by the Baloch Yakjehti Committee (BYC) in Karachi has resulted in the detention of around 50 male protesters, including 13 women. The police operation, aimed at dispersing those demanding the release of detained colleagues, has been marked by severe violence and arrests, with the occupied-authorities targeting Baloch women who were staging a sit-in at the Karachi Press Club.

The protest was held in response to ongoing violence and arrests of Baloch Raaji Muchi participants in Gwadar and other parts of Pak-occupied-Balochistan. The crackdown against peaceful Baloch protesters in both POB and Karachi represents a serious infringement on their fundamental rights. Despite their peaceful intentions, the protesters have been met with aggressive tactics and mass arrests.

Among those arrested in Karachi are renowned human rights activist Professor Nida Kirmani, several Baloch women, and Fozia Baloch, an organizer and leader of the BYC, all of whom have been transferred to the police station.

The BYC condemned the actions of the Pak Army for this blatant violation of the right to peaceful assembly and free expression. Reportedly, bogus cases are being filed against the detained Baloch protesters in Karachi, and some of the arrested women are being forcibly transferred to undisclosed locations. This latest episode of brutality highlights the ongoing repression faced by the Baloch community.

Pak Army opens fire on Baloch protesters in Nushki, one dead & two injured

Pak security forces have reportedly opened fire on a peaceful protest rally in Nushki, resulting in critical injuries and several casualties. The incident occurred during a demonstration organized by the Baloch Yakjehti Committee, which was protesting against recent violence and the killing of a young man on the N40 Station Qalam Chowk.

Frontier Corps (FC) personnel targeted the protestors, who were staging a dharna in large numbers. The violence led to the death of Hamdan Baloch, who was fatally struck by gunfire. Two other protesters sustained serious injuries in the attack. In response to the unrest, occupied-authorities have shut down the entire network in Nushki.

The brutal action by the Pak forces is a gross violation of the right to peaceful assembly. The BYC has vowed to continue their resistance despite the repression. They assert that the Army’s oppressive tactics will not silence their demands for justice and rights.

Over the past six days, similar crackdowns have been reported across Pak-occupied-Balochistan, from Gwadar to Talar, Mastung, and Chagai Hub, where Pak forces have been firing on peaceful Baloch protesters. The committee says that the Paki establishment’s historical strategy of using force to suppress Baloch voices is fundamentally flawed.

The protest movement, fueled by the bloodshed of Baloch youth, remains steadfast in its resolve. The BYC continues to call for an end to the Pak Army’s oppressive measures and vows to escalate public resistance in the face of ongoing brutality.

Islamabad police re-arrests Ali Wazir amidst crackdown on PTM members

Ali Wazir, a prominent leader of the Pashtun Tahafuz Movement (PTM), was arrested by Islamabad police on August 2, 2024, at PIMS Hospital in Islamabad. His arrest comes as part of a broader crackdown on key PTM members. The occupied-authority has issued arrest orders for three other PTM leaders: Zubair Shah Agha, a central committee member; Malik Majeed Kakar; and Noor Bacha, the provincial coordinator. These arrests are being pursued under the controversial Black Law.

Reportedly, Islamabad Secretariat Police forcibly took Ali Wazir from the hospital following orders from Paki establishment without any formal charges.

Ali Wazir is currently being held at the Secretariat Police Station. Although supporters have gathered outside the station, they have been denied entry, and police are denying Wazir’s presence at the facility. There are growing concerns over his whereabouts, as conflicting reports suggest he may be missing.

The recent arrests are seen as part of a broader effort to suppress dissent ahead of a planned Pashtun National Court event scheduled for October 11. The crackdown reflects fears among authorities regarding the growing influence of Baloch and Pashtun nationalist movements.

Pak Army orders arrests of PTM leaders under controversial black law

The occupied-government has issued arrest orders for three key members of the Pashtun Tahafuz Movement (PTM): Zubair Shah Agha, a central committee member; Malik Majeed Kakar; and Noor Bacha, the provincial coordinator. The arrests are being pursued under the controversial Black Law 16MPO, which has faced criticism for suppressing political dissent.

In response, the PTM leaders have condemned the arrest orders, asserting that they are a blatant attempt to stifle democratic and peaceful struggles of oppressed and marginalized communities. They argue that every citizen has the right to peaceful political activism and protest, which the occupied-state is currently denying to the Pashtun and Baloch people.

The PTM has criticized the Punjabi Pak Army’s actions, stating that such tactics cannot quash the movements of oppressed Pashtuns, but only serve to intensify their resolve. They have called on both occupied-state and provincial governments to retract the illegal orders immediately. The PTM has pledged to defend its officials and workers and warned of widespread protests if any arrests are carried out.

This development is part of a broader pattern of suppression against Pashtun voices. Since 1947, the Punjabi-dominated Pak military has been exploiting Pashtun lands and labeling locals as terrorists or militants once their strategic interests are served.

The PTM emerged as a non-violent response to this exploitation, advocating for Pashtun rights and safety. However, the military’s increasingly aggressive and violent methods have targeted activists, journalists, and ordinary Pashtuns, leading to abductions, disappearances, and deaths in remote areas.

POGB: Chilmishdas floods worsen with Pak administration unconcerned

The Chilmishdas area of Pakistan-occupied Gilgit-Baltistan (PoGB) is grappling with a severe flood-like situation, exposing significant neglect by occupied-authorities towards essential infrastructure issues. A seasonal river in the region is threatening to inundate local electricity supply lines critical for Gilgit City.

Despite the looming flood threat, the local administration is only now attempting emergency repairs and adjustments. Residents have voiced frustration, noting that the crisis could have been mitigated if the occupied-administration had constructed a gabion wall, a project approved in 2022 but left incomplete.

A local activist expressed frustration, saying, “We repeatedly urged the administration to address this issue before the monsoon. Our concerns were ignored.”

Flood Emergency

Local politician Ilyas Siddiqui criticized the administration’s failure to act promptly. “This is not the first instance of such negligence. In 2022, we experienced a similar flood situation. Former Chief Minister Khalid Khurshid temporarily sanctioned a 1000-foot gabion wall, but its extension was never completed. Now, as floods approach, the administration is scrambling with temporary fixes. If the tower in the river collapses, it could disrupt Gilgit City’s electricity for at least a month, and the administration will be held accountable.”

A similar flood-like situation was reported in the outskirts of Skardu and Shigar districts of PoGB, where local authorities also failed to provide adequate rescue or relief, leading to significant damage to private property and homes.

Floods pose a severe threat in these areas, where the local population largely relies on agriculture for their livelihoods. Recent floods have not only destroyed homes but also severely damaged road infrastructure, which was already in poor condition.

Pak Army arrests PTM coordinator & attacks central member

Shahzad Wazir, the South Waziristan Coordinator for the Pashtun Tahafuz Movement (PTM), was arrested under 3MPO, while PTM central member Farman Akhtar was attacked by security agencies last night.

The arrest of Wazir took place three days ago in Aghi, with reports indicating that he is currently held at the D.I. Khan jail. This arrest is part of a broader crackdown on PTM members, which has intensified due to the Pashtun National Court, led by Manzoor Pashteen, scheduled for October 11. It has spread fear within the Punjabi Pak Army and imposed severe restrictions on the members of the Pashtun Tahafuz Movement (PTM).

Meanwhile, occupied-authorities raided the residence of Farman Akhtar late last night. The raid adds to the growing list of confrontations between the PTM and occupied- agencies. Earlier, a notorious former death squad member, now serving as a Station House Officer (SHO), attempted to abduct Farman Akhtar. The intervention of local residents and Wazir’s friends thwarted the abduction attempt, highlighting the ongoing risks and resistance faced by PTM members.

The PTM, which advocates for Pashtun rights and justice, has faced increasing pressure and repression from the Punjabi Pak Army. These recent developments underscore the ongoing challenges and risks faced by PTM members as they continue their advocacy efforts amidst heightened scrutiny and aggression from security forces.

Protests at PoGB Sost border, demand end to tax collection

Ongoing protests at Pakistan-occupied Gilgit-Baltistan’s (PoGB) Sost dry port have caused significant disruptions for foreign nationals attempting to enter or exit the region. The protests, now in their third day, have left numerous travelers stranded outside the customs office, unable to complete necessary clearance procedures.

Traders involved in cross-border trade between China and Pakistan organized the protest, citing grievances over illegal taxes imposed by customs officials. Despite a court order from the Chief Court of PoGB restraining the collection of sales tax, income tax, and additional sales tax, traders say that the Federal Bureau of Revenue (FBR) and customs officers have been obstructing the enforcement of this order.

Traders from PoGB initiated a sit-in on 29 July, at the NLC Dry Port in Sost to demand the implementation of a court order regarding tax exemptions for cross-border trade with China through the Khunjerab Pass.

Traders, including those from Quetta, have expressed frustration over the delays, about the corruption and bribery that are affecting the process. A trader who has been waiting for five days criticized the customs officials for their inaction and claimed that only those who paid bribes were cleared.

Protesters are demanding that customs officials comply with the court order and end the illegal tax collection. If their demands are not met, they have warned of escalating the protest, potentially blocking key transportation routes such as the Karakoram Highway.

Third day of shutter-down strike in Panjgur amid intensified Baloch protests

On the call of the Baloch Yakjehti Committee, Panjgur observed a complete shutter-down strike for the third consecutive day. Shops, business centers, and financial institutions remained closed as part of the ongoing protest movement.

A protest rally was held on Friday, which made its way to the Deputy Commissioner’s office via various highways. At the office, protest leaders presented their demands and engaged in negotiations with the Deputy Commissioner.

The unrest follows a recent crackdown by authorities on a peaceful assembly, which has sparked widespread demonstrations across Pak-occupied-Balochistan. The situation has escalated, leading to the closure of several key highways and cities, including the provincial capital, Quetta. Demonstrators have blocked railway tracks and major routes connecting POB with neighboring regions.

Police and paramilitary forces, including the Frontier Corps, has arrested dozens of individuals and using excessive force during the Gwadar Baloch Raaji Muchi rally. This has resulted in multiple injuries and heightened tensions.

Protesters have demanded an end to the use of force against peaceful gatherings and the release of detained activists. They have also called for the reopening of blocked routes and the restoration of internet and mobile services, which have been suspended in the region for several days.