Netherlands: Baloch outfit in Amsterdam stage protests against Pakistan’s illegal occupation of homeland

The International Baloch Rights Organisation, the Baloch National Movement (BNM) organised a massive protest in Amsterdam against Pakistan’s occupation of Balochistan in an official press statement on March 26, 2024.

According to the press statement, in observance of “Black Day” against the forced occupation of Baluchistan, the Baloch National Movement organised a protest rally in Amsterdam, Netherlands.

Protestors brandished placards and banners denouncing the occupation of Balochistan adorned with the various slogans advocating for Balochistan freedom and condemning the forced occupation. Additionally, information pamphlets were distributed to raise awareness among locals about the situation in Baluchistan.

The press statement also stated that addressing the gathering, speakers reiterated their unwavering commitment to the cause echoing Dr Allah Nizar’s sentiment that the Baloch struggle for independence will persist till freedom is achieved. They emphasised March 27, 1948 as a tragic day in Baloch history, marking 75 years of resistance against oppression

Describing the Baloch genocide, the release said that “March 27, 1948 as a dark day in Baloch history, they highlighted the enduring struggle against Pakistan’s illegal occupation, calling for global solidarity to address ongoing human rights violation in Baluchistan. The speakers underscored the resilience of the Baloch nation in the face of injustice emphasising their ongoing resistance against illegal occupation.”

They also brought attention to the economic exploitation of Baluchistan’s resources by Pakistan. Collectively, the urged the United Nations (UN), the European Union (EU) and other international bodies to intervene and investigate the human rights situation in Balochistan urging the global community to stand in solidarity with the Baloch nation in their quest for freedom and justice.

Nabeel Khan, a protestor and a leader of the Baloch National Movement during the protests stated “We may say that March 27, 1948 is the Black Day of Balochistan genocide, but everyday continues to be a black day for the Baloch community since March 27, 1948. Every day we hear about enforced disappearances by the Pakistan Army or the intelligence agencies of Pakistan.

The torture and torture of people from the Baloch community continues till today. Thousands of Baloch are missing and thousands are martyred by the terrorist state of Pakistan.” Khan further mentioned the “Pakistani state often says that we are feeding people of Baluchistan. They must know that they have been stealing our land resources from ages.

The Sandak Project, which is one of the biggest mines and reserves in Pakistan. Through that project they have been extracting every gram of gold, copper and other land resources from Baluchistan.

Additionally, they have been taking out gas reserves in Sui and giving them to the elitist in Pakistan (Punjabis of Pakistan). And the people from where entire Pakistan is getting their gas are deprived of any benefit associated with the gas. Hence, you are not feeding us, we are feeding you.”