BLA Urges Boycott of August 14 Celebrations in Balochistan
SHAAL (QUETTA): The Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) has issued a statement calling on the Baloch and Pashtun communities in Balochistan to boycott Pakistan’s Independence Day celebrations on August 14, calling them “forcibly imposed” and a tool to “legitimise occupation” Baloch and Pashtun lands.
In a press release circulated through its spokesperson, Azad Baloch, the group warned that events marking the so called national day of Pakistan in Balochistan would be considered legitimate targets. The BLA further advised locals to avoid public gatherings and programs related to the celebrations, citing concerns for personal safety.
The group said that the Pakistani state was using coercion and economic pressure to compel public participation in Independence Day activities. “From government employees to business owners, the state uses livelihoods as a weapon to enforce its narrative,” the statement read.
Describing its self as the “national and legal army of Balochistan,” the BLA rejected Pakistan’s authority on Baloch land and vowed to resist “external conspiracies” being imposed on Baloch and local Pashtun populations.
The group reiterated its stance that the Baloch and Pashtuns have no natural or historical affiliation with Pakistan’s independence and should, therefore, reject the “false freedom of an artificial state.”
In response to growing attacks by Baloch freedom fighters, Pakistani forces have intensified security measures across Balochistan ahead of the August 14 celebrations.
Authorities have also imposed a Balochistan-wide internet blackout, which will remain in effect until August 3, in an effort to suppress the voice of Baloch people.
