The Book of Balochistan: 8th June – Baloch Missing Persons Day – Sahir Baloch
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Written By: Sahir Baloch
On 8th June each year, Balochistan observes Baloch Missing Persons Day, a solemn reminder of the hundreds, if not thousands, of Baloch individuals who have disappeared over the years. This day is dedicated to highlighting the plight of these missing persons and the ongoing human rights violations in the region.
Historical Context
Balochistan has a tumultuous history marked by conflict and resistance. Following its forced annexation by Pakistan in 1948, the region has experienced significant unrest. The Baloch people have long fought for their autonomy and rights, which has often led to harsh reprisals from the state, including enforced disappearances.
The Enforced Disappearances
Enforced disappearances in Balochistan began intensifying in the early 2000s. The state security forces and intelligence agencies have been abducting Baloch activists, students, and political leaders to stifle dissent. These missing persons are often detained without charge or trial, and their whereabouts remain unknown, causing profound distress to their families.
Notable Cases
Zakir Majeed:
A student leader and human rights activist, Zakir Majeed was abducted on 8th June 2009. Despite continuous efforts by his family and organizations like the Voice for Baloch Missing Persons, his fate remains unknown. His sister, Farzana Majeed, has been a vocal advocate for his release, undertaking long marches and numerous protests.
Dr. Deen Mohammad Baloch:
A medical doctor abducted in 2009, Dr. Deen Mohammad Baloch’s daughter, Sammi Baloch, has spent her childhood protesting for his release, a tragic reflection of the impact of these disappearances on families.
Sangat Sana Baloch:
An activist associated with the Baloch National Movement (BNM), Sangat Sana Baloch was abducted in December 2009. His mutilated body was found months later, a stark reminder of the brutalities faced by the missing persons.
Abdul Ghaffar Baloch:
Ghaffar Baloch, the father of human rights activist Mahrang Baloch, was abducted by security forces in 2009. His disappearance was a devastating blow to his family, particularly to Mahrang, who became an outspoken advocate for the rights of missing persons. Tragically, her father was later found dead with signs of torture.
Rashid Hussain:
A young Baloch activist, Rashid Hussain was reportedly abducted. His family has been tirelessly campaigning for his release, but his whereabouts remain unknown.
Wahid Baloch:
A renowned publisher and intellectual, Wahid Baloch was abducted in 2016. Despite international outcry and campaigns for his release, he remains missing, highlighting the ongoing crisis of enforced disappearances in Balochistan.
The Movement for Justice
The Voice for Baloch Missing Persons (VBMP) is at the forefront of the campaign to recover the missing. Founded by families of the disappeared, the VBMP organizes protests, hunger strikes, and international campaigns to draw attention to the issue. They advocate for transparency, justice, and the safe return of their loved ones.
International Attention and Advocacy
International human rights organizations, including Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch, have called on State to address these enforced disappearances and hold the perpetrators accountable. Despite these calls, the situation remains dire, with new disappearances reported regularly.
The Significance of 8th June
Each year, 8th June serves as a poignant reminder of the unresolved plight of the missing. Protests and vigils are held across Balochistan and in diaspora communities worldwide. The day is marked by emotional appeals from families and survivors, urging the global community to take notice and action.
In Quetta, families of the disappeared gather in front of the Quetta Press Club, holding life-sized portraits of their missing loved ones.
