Baloch Voice Association President urges UN, international community to act on Balochistan situation

Munir Mengal, president of the Baloch Voice Association, has called on the United Nations and the international community to intervene in the situation in Balochistan. Speaking on the sidelines of the 63rd session of the United Nations Human Rights Council in Geneva on September 17, Mengal alleged that ongoing military operations in the region are causing significant harm to civilians, including women and children.

Mengal claimed that military operations occur daily in Balochistan, resulting in casualties, injuries, and the destruction of homes. He alleged that state forces are responsible for these actions and accused the Pakistani government of attempting to eliminate the Baloch population. He further asserted that the Pakistani state is using force to suppress the Baloch people, who he stated are seeking to regain sovereignty over their land.

During his address, Mengal urged international organizations, UN treaty bodies, and special rapporteurs to investigate these allegations. He specifically called for increased pressure on Pakistan regarding its human rights record, suggesting that the European Commission should leverage trade agreements, such as the Generalised Scheme of Preferences Plus (GSP+), to hold the Pakistani government accountable.

While Mengal expressed appreciation for previous inquiries and communiques sent by the European Union and its treaty bodies to Pakistani authorities, he argued that more robust action is required. He characterized the situation as a political conflict and stated that military force is not a viable solution. Mengal reiterated a call for a dialogue between the Baloch people and the Pakistani state, suggesting that such a process should include an international guarantor.

Article and image source: pakistantelegraph.com