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Pakistan wants bloodshed in Balochistan before fake elections – BNM

As Pakistan gears up for its upcoming fake elections, tensions in Balochistan are expected to rise further. The Baloch National Movement (BNM) spokesperson has issued a grave warning, that Pakistan wants bloodshed in Balochistan during the so-called elections. The statement points to a disturbing trend of enforced disappearances, human rights violations, and state oppression that casts a dark shadow over the electoral process.

According to the BNM spokesperson, enforced disappearances have become a coercive tool employed by Pakistan to force individuals into voting, instilling fear through increased state oppression. Past elections have witnessed a notable rise in human rights violations and enforced disappearances, raising concerns about the fairness and legitimacy of the electoral process in the region.

The situation in Balochistan has escalated to a troubling extent, with military killings and enforced disappearances on the rise. The process of recovering forcefully missing persons has also seen a decline, adding to the anguish and distress of affected families. The situation has further deteriorated by the recent reports of enforced disappearances in Dera Bugti. Along with that, unabated killings and disappearances in Awaran and Kech districts have heightened apprehensions among the Baloch population.

Pak Instigated Violence Causing Mental Turmoil

The spokesperson attributed the violence perpetuated by the Pakistan Army in Balochistan to an increase in mental illness and suicide among the youth, leading to a surge in fear and anxiety throughout society. The situation has further exacerbated the existing sense of unrest and instability in the region.

Of particular concern is the claim that the Pakistan Army is allegedly attempting to create a civil war-like scenario in Balochistan, intending to cause extensive violence during the elections. The motive behind this move is purportedly to mask their crimes against humanity, presenting them as a political or tribal conflict. In areas like Wadh, the Pakistan Army is actively conspiring through death squads to pave the way for the establishment of a puppet government.

The spokesperson asserted that the Baloch people must remain vigilant and wise in comprehending the circumstances to prevent the occupying state’s sinister intentions. As, unity and a cohesive society are seen as vital elements in countering potential violence and safeguarding their rights and future.

Protests continue at Balochistan University after failed negotiations

In recent developments, the talks between the Students Grand Alliance and the Balochistan University authority have failed. Earlier, speculations were made that negotiations had reached a conclusion, but the protestors denied the claim.

The administration is unable to make any decisions regarding the special exams because the students have decided to continue with the protests. Even after the notifications are out for the exams, they won’t budge until their demands are met.

For the last ten days, the students of Balochistan University of Engineering and Technology Khuzdar have been protesting, demanding their list of demands to be met. Their demands encompass various aspects, such as reducing fees, eliminating ‘unnecessary’ surveillance cameras, restoring scholarships, and lifting restrictions on study circles. Additionally, they insist on the removal of the current examination controller, whom they accuse of displaying intimidating behavior.

The peaceful sit-in protest saw a brutal crackdown when the Police and Frontier Corps tortured the protestors in the University premises and detained several students, who were later released.

In solidarity, The Baloch Students Action Committee held a protest rally in the capital Quetta and campaigned in favor of the protestors on social networking sites.

Hanif Pashteen released after four years

Hanif Pashteen, a notable human rights activist, was finally released after four long years of captivity at Bannu jail, sparking hope and celebration. This remarkable news has sparked admiration and gratitude from countless individuals who have supported him and his unwavering cause throughout this challenging journey.

Hanif Pashteen, renowned for his fearless advocacy for the rights and dignity of marginalized communities, had been incarcerated on charges that were politically motivated. His detention sparked a global outcry from human rights organizations, activists, and concerned citizens who believed in the justness of his cause.

Upon his release, many activists have expressed their messages of celebration, praising the strength and determination.

Meanwhile, PTM also expressed their joy on social media platforms.

Hanif Pashteen’s activism primarily focused on advocating for the rights and well-being of Pashtun communities in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa region of Pakistan. His efforts centered around raising awareness about enforced disappearances, extrajudicial killings, and other human rights abuses thrusted on marginalized groups by Pakistan.

Today, we salute Hanif Pashteen’s courageous stance, his resilient family members, and every individual who lent their voice to the cause of justice.

BNM Germany protests against atrocities by Pak Army on Balochs

On the World Day for International Justice, the Baloch National movement (BNM) staged a protest in Dusseldorf, Germany.  During the protest, various members of the BNM along with other Baloch individuals gathered and expressed concern over the gross human rights violation in Balochistan.

On July 15, the demonstration was held outside the Dusseldorf Central Station. BNM General Secretary Sangat Jabbar Baloch expressed concern over the human right abuses in Balochistan. He said that the cases of enforced disappearances have increased. More than 10,000 students have forcibly disappeared from their houses and are present in the Pak Army torture cells. Outlining the terror industry of Pakistan, he stated that Pakistan has destroyed Afghanistan and terrorized South Asia. He requested the EU and UN to take action against the exploitation of Baloch land. According to him, Balochistan is a resources rich nation but is under the exploitation of Pakistan. He said, “Pakistan took our gold, copper, mine, yet we have no school, no road, no electricity, nothing.”Apart from him, BNM Germany NRW Deputy Unit Secretary Sangat Amjeed Murad, Sangat Badal Baloch, Joint Secretary Sangat Shar Hassan also addressed the gathering.

BNM Fighting Pak Atrocities

BNM has been fighting for the Baloch Rights for more than 27 years now. It has raised its voice against the infamous ”kill and dump” and “enforced disappearances” policy of Pakistan. Since its illegal occupation in March 1948, Balochistan has witnessed the worst phase of human rights violations. Unfortunately, the International organizations, including UN have turned a blind eye towards the atrocities on Baloch people. Nonetheless, to resist the illegal encroachment and exploitation of Baloch land and raise the issue of human rights violation by Pakistan, BNM has taken a center stage. Now BNM has its presence in various countries across the world especially Europe. The Baloch Diaspora, although being small has continuously raised the issue of Balochistan in the respective countries.

Section 144 imposed in Pak-occupied Gilgit-Baltistan

In order to ensure a peaceful observance of Muharram, Captain (Rtd) Usama Majeed Cheema, the Deputy Commissioner / District Magistrate of Pakistan- occupied-Gilgit, has issued a ban on certain activities across the district under Section 144 of the Criminal Procedure Code.

The ban encompasses a range of activities deemed potentially disruptive to the serene atmosphere during Muharram. Exciting speeches, the display of all types of weapons, the purchase and sale of weapons or explosives, aerial firing, and the use of firecrackers have all been prohibited. Additionally, gatherings of more than four people in one place, except for funerals, weddings, and Muharram gatherings, will not be allowed. Any constructions along the procession routes have also been banned to ensure the smooth passage of the processions.

Furthermore, Deputy Commissioner Cheema has restricted the entry of religious leaders from other parts of the country into the NOC districts until the conclusion of Chehlum. The ninth and tenth of Muharram will see a ban on motorcycle double riding to enhance safety during the religious observances.

The district magistrate has also enforced a complete prohibition on the use of placards and tape recorders that may offend the sentiments of any sect, group, or political party. He has urged the public to cooperate with the administration by identifying those who violate these orders and supporting efforts to uphold peace and tranquility. Law enforcement officers have been directed to take strict legal action against any individuals or groups found in violation of Section 144.

Manipur: A woman’s body cannot be the battle ground

Massive condemnation and outrage have swept across the nation after a distressing video emerged from Manipur, depicting the most heinous and unforgivable crime. The viral video showed two women from the Kuki-Zomy tribe being paraded naked by a violent mob during an ongoing community crisis in Manipur. Subsequently, the women were reportedly molested and subjected to brutal gang rape.

The tragedy, which occurred on 4 May as a result of an outbreak of violence, sent shockwaves throughout the country. The footage recently surfaced, sparking immediate reaction by concerned authorities and massive public outrage. Union Minister Smriti Z Irani quickly reached out to Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh, promising harsh punishment for the culprits.

According to senior police officials in Manipur, a Zero FIR was registered on 18 May at Kangpokpi Police Station, implicating the accused in this horrifying incident. The video showed two women, but the complaint reveals that several more women, including those in their 50s, were forced to disrobe in front of the mob. Among them, a young woman in her twenties was subjected to a brutal gang rape in broad daylight.

The victims’ complaint sheds light on the harrowing events that unfolded on that fateful day. After an attack on their village by a group of 800-1,000 individuals armed with sophisticated weapons, including AK Rifles, SLR, INSAS, and .303 Rifles, five villagers, including three women and two family members of the youngest woman, sought refuge in the forest. The police later rescued them, but they were intercepted by the violent mob while being taken to the police station. Tragically, the youngest woman’s father lost his life on the spot, and the three women endured a horrifying ordeal.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his deep anguish and anger over the incident. Ahead of the Monsoon session of Parliament, he assured the nation that no guilty party would be spared, and stringent actions would be taken in accordance with the law. He firmly stated, “What happened to the daughters of Manipur can never be forgiven.”

The opposition parties, including Congress and AAP, have strongly criticized both the state and central governments for their failure to effectively address the ongoing crisis in Manipur. Fifteen Members of Parliament have issued a notice to suspend all parliamentary business and prioritize discussions on the Manipur violence.

The Supreme Court has also taken suo moto cognizance of the gruesome act, warning the central government to act immediately, or else it will intervene. The court has scheduled the suo moto case for hearing on 28 July.

The appeal for justice is heard across the country, with officials demanded to take prompt and decisive action to bring the perpetrators to justice and secure the safety and dignity of all citizens, particularly vulnerable women who need protection in the violence-stricken state. Furthermore, the government has requested that the video be removed from Twitter in order to avoid its further distribution and re-victimization of the affected women, emphasising the importance of respecting their privacy and dignity during this difficult time.

As a nation, we stand united in our demand for justice, compassion, and dignity for the victims. We must remember that a woman’s body should never be treated as a battleground for violence and hatred. This tragic incident should serve as a reminder for us to come together and not allow this tragedy to be forgotten.

Chandy Oommen’s funeral honored with humility

Despite an earlier decision by the state cabinet to award all formal honours for the ceremony, the funeral of veteran Congress politician Chandy Oommen has been arranged as per his last desire. Chandy Oommen, who served as Kerala’s Chief Minister twice, died recently, leaving an everlasting effect on the state’s political scene.

In expressing his father’s final wish, Chandy’s son disclosed that before travelling for medical treatment in Germany, the late leader asked that his funeral not be accorded state honours. The family expressed this sentiment to the state administration, which finally respected and honoured the late leader’s decision.

The funeral procession began in Thiruvananthapuram and worked its way across the severely packed MC Road to Kottayam. Thousands of fans and well-wishers gathered on both sides of the road to pay their respects. People from all walks of life, including pregnant women, disabled people, and elderly men and women, gathered to pay their respects to Chandy Oommen, who was much regarded for his warm personality.

The travel to Kottayam took longer than expected due to the large number of mourners who wanted to say their final goodbyes to the revered leader. Displays of affection accompanied the funeral cortege, with some holding lit candles and others pouring flowers on the low-floor AC bus carrying Chandy Oommen.

Baselios Marthoma Mathews III, the head of the Malankara Orthodox Syrian Church, will officiate at the funeral rituals. A dedicated tomb within the church grounds has been constructed to create a monument honouring the beloved politician’s life and legacy. Chandy Oommen dedicated and committed himself to his state and its people, leaving an unforgettable mark on the hearts of those he served.

The shocking reality of Uyghur forced labor in China

In a shocking investigation conducted by Radio Free Asia (RFA), distressing details have emerged about a Chinese-run garment factory in Xinjiang, where approximately 90 Uyghur teenage girls are allegedly being subjected to forced labor, verbal and physical abuse. The factory, known as Wanhe Garment Co. Ltd. in Maralbeshi county, reportedly maintains a secret agreement with a nearby vocational school, forcing female students aged 16 to 18 to work against their will.

Sources, including a village chief and the factory’s security chief, who spoke on the condition of anonymity, shed light on the grim conditions endured by the workers. These young girls are forced to work arduous 14-hour shifts seven days a week, with little respite and are routinely mistreated. To add to the cruelty, local authorities have allegedly coerced parents into not objecting to sending their children to work at the factory.

The factory is managed by a Chinese husband-and-wife team who oversee a middle-aged Uyghur woman named Tursungul Memtimin, referred to as “teacher” by the workers. Memtimin is accused of wielding a bat to inflict harm on the workers and subjecting them to verbal abuse. Fear of retaliation has created an atmosphere where escape attempts are rare.

This grim revelation surfaces amidst growing evidence of Uyghur forced labor in Xinjiang, raising concerns about major companies’ supply chains. Companies like Inditex, the parent company of Zara clothing chain, Fast Retailing (parent company of Uniqlo), and car manufacturers Volkswagen, Mercedes-Benz, and BMW have come under increased scrutiny to ensure they are not using products manufactured with Uyghur forced labor.

The Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act in the United States, enacted in December 2021, mandates American companies importing goods from Xinjiang to prove that they are not involved in Uyghur forced labor at any stage of production.

Despite repeated attempts to seek an interview with Wanhe factory officials, RFA’s requests have been met with silence.

In the past, some workers managed to escape the factory compound, but their freedom was short-lived. The factory’s management reportedly went to great lengths to forcibly return them, threatening their parents with “re-education” camps if they failed to comply.

The factory, located in Kashgar province, employs workers from Maralbeshi, offering meager salaries of around 300 to 400 yuan (US$42 to US$56) per month for their long hours of labor. The region’s cotton industry has attracted investment, leading to the establishment of numerous textile and garment enterprises that benefit from cheap labor.

The situation at the Wanhe factory raises serious concerns about human rights abuses and highlights the urgent need for international companies to scrutinize their supply chains to ensure they are free from forced labor and exploitation.