Editorial
“Military Aggression in Dera Bugti”
Editorial
Over the four to five days, a significant military operation has been unfolding in Dera Bugti and its surrounding areas in Balochistan. The operation involves extensive deployments of ground troops, air forces, and gunship helicopters. Notably, Dera Bugti, particularly the Sui area, is known for its substantial gas production, which plays a crucial role in meeting Pakistan’s energy demands.
Disturbing reports from local sources suggest that numerous local people have been taken into custody by the security forces, including agencies involved in raids across different areas. The situation has been further intensified with the arrival of the Core Commander of Balochistan, Asif Gafoor, who is directly overseeing the ongoing operation. There are indications that additional forces from Naseerabad are being dispatched to join those currently engaged in military operations in Zain Kow and various other areas. These developments underscore the gravity of the situation on the ground.
This military operation is not an isolated incident; it follows a pattern of large-scale operations and aggressive tactics employed by the Pakistani army to suppress voices of dissent and concerns raised against the inhumane and unlawful treatment of local residents, all in an effort to strengthen its grip on Balochistan.
In addition, a death squad leader has been appointed as the interim interior minister in Pakistan’s interim government setup. The appointment of Sarfaraz Bugti as interior minister and Anwar ul Haq Kakar as prime minister indicates the intention of the government’s future policies in dealing with the Baloch struggle. These selections suggest a readiness to employ repressive measures against the Baloch people.
It’s essential to recognize that the Baloch people have endured decades of state repression, dating back to the forced occupation of Balochistan by state forces 75 years ago. The military operation initiated in Dera Bugti is expected to escalate and extend throughout Balochistan as the state faces increasing challenges in the region. The determination of Baloch youth, who are sacrificing their lives in the pursuit of freedom from occupation forces, continues to frustrate the state’s attempts to maintain control.
The reports emerging from Dera Bugti highlight the urgent need for human rights groups to take a stand against the gross human rights violations and state repression occurring in Balochistan. Disturbingly, individuals ranging from the elderly to children have been apprehended by security forces and relocated to undisclosed locations, leaving their families in anguish and uncertainty. Illegal raids, humiliation, and torture in front of family members are becoming alarmingly routine. Such brutalities must not be ignored, and swift actions need to be taken to address these violations of human rights and the state of Pakistan must be held accountable for its crimes and genocidal policies in Balochistan.
The international community, human rights organizations, and concerned individuals must lend their voices to the cause of justice and freedom for the Baloch people, urging accountability and an end to these disturbing actions by state forces. It is imperative that the plight of Balochistan is brought to the forefront, and those responsible for these violations are held accountable for their actions.