The Legacy of Martyrs Kambar Chakar and Ilyas Nizar: A Struggle for Freedom of Balochistan
Editorail
The history of national liberation movements is often marked by the sacrifices of extraordinary individuals who dedicate their lives to the pursuit of justice, freedom, and equality. Martyrs Kambar Chakar and Ilyas Nizar were two such individuals whose unwavering commitment to the Baloch national cause continues to inspire generations. On their 14th martyrdom anniversary, we honor their lives, sacrifices, and indelible contributions to the Baloch liberation movement.
Kambar Chakar: A Symbol of Resistance
Born on October 7, 1987, in Alandoor, Buleda, Kambar Chakar grew up in Shahi Tump, district Kech, where his family had migrated. From a young age, Kambar exhibited exceptional determination and a strong sense of justice. After completing his primary education in Alandoor, he pursued higher studies at Government College Turbat before enrolling at the prestigious Balochistan University of Information Technology and Management Sciences (BUITEMS) in Quetta as a BS Economics student.
Kambar’s political journey began as a member of BSO Mutahida, where his tireless activism quickly earned him the position of deputy organizer of Turbat Zone. Following the dissolution of BSO Mutahida, Kambar joined BSO Azad and rose to prominence, becoming the deputy general secretary of the Shall Zone.
Kambar’s activism focused on the rights of Baloch students and the broader national struggle. He played a leading role in resisting oppressive policies, including the removal of the quota system at BUITEMS, which threatened to limit educational opportunities for Baloch students. His leadership in organizing hunger strikes and protests made him a symbol of resistance.
However, Kambar’s activism made him a target of state oppression. In 2009, he was abducted by state forces, detained, and tortured. Although released after months of illegal detention, he was abducted again on November 26, 2010, along with his cousin, Irshad Baloch. On January 5, 2011, his mutilated and bullet-riddled body was discovered in the Pidrak area near Turbat, alongside the body of Ilyas Nizar.
Ilyas Nizar: The Voice of the Oppressed
Born on July 12, 1986, in Shahrak, district Kech, Ilyas Nizar was a gifted student, teacher, and journalist. A Master’s student in Computer Science at the University of Balochistan (UoB), Ilyas combined his academic pursuits with a passion for political activism and journalism.
As a member of BSO Azad’s Shaal Zone, Ilyas used his pen to educate and empower the Baloch people. He founded Darwant, the first Balochi-language children’s magazine, which circulated for two years before his disappearance. His dedication to peaceful political expression and advocacy for missing persons made him a target of state oppression.
On December 22, 2010, Ilyas was abducted from Pasni Zero Point, district Gwadar, by state forces. Weeks later, on January 5, 2011, his lifeless body was found alongside Kambar Chakar’s, bearing clear signs of torture and execution.
A Shared Legacy
The tragic deaths of Kambar Chakar and Ilyas Nizar revealed the brutal extent of the state’s kill-and-dump policy against Baloch political activists. Despite their physical elimination, their ideals and struggle remain alive.
Kambar Chakar’s leadership in student politics and Ilyas Nizar’s contributions to journalism and education embody the resilience of the Baloch people. Their sacrifices have become a rallying cry for those who continue to fight for the rights and sovereignty of Balochistan.
Baloch nation honor their memory, the legacy of Kambar and Ilyas reminds us that the pursuit of freedom often comes at the highest cost. Their martyrdom is not an end but a torch passed to future generations, lighting the path to liberation.