The Baloch National Movement (BNM) hosted a conference in London on August 11 to commemorate “Baloch Pledge Renewal Day.” The event underscored the historical significance of Balochistan’s August 11, 1947, declaration of independence, shedding light on the region’s history, its ongoing political struggle, and the resolute demand for the Baloch nation’s liberation from Pakistani occupation.
Speakers emphasized that August 11 serves as a stark reminder that the Baloch are not a marginalized, nameless group that can be easily pushed into obscurity, but a historically rich nation whose freedom was stripped away. They asserted that Pakistan maintains its occupation of Balochistan through brute force and ruthless military actions. Enforced disappearances and extrajudicial killings run rampant, while entire villages are being systematically demolished as a form of collective punishment. Each year, this day echoes the memory of their stolen sovereignty.
The speakers urged the Baloch nation to recognize that they remain shackled by subjugation. “Today, we renew our pledge to relentlessly pursue our struggle until the freedom of our Baloch homeland is fully restored,” they declared.
Highlighting historical parallels, the speakers noted that Britain’s attack on Kalat on November 13, 1839, marked the beginning of Balochistan’s prolonged subjugation. However, the fierce resistance of the Khan of Kalat, Mir Mehrab Khan, forged a new chapter in history. His martyrdom, alongside other prominent Baloch leaders, stands as a powerful testament to the Baloch nation’s unwavering spirit and ultimate sacrifices for sovereignty and national autonomy.
The speakers made it unequivocally clear that the Baloch nation will never abandon its quest for liberation. They warned that the repercussions of Balochistan’s forced occupation will not remain confined to the Baloch nation alone; rather, establishing lasting peace in this strategically vital region is only possible through Balochistan’s independence. They argued that the presence of an inherently unstable state like Pakistan perpetuates regional volatility.
The Baloch nation’s appeal to the international community is neither extraordinary nor illegitimate—they simply demand the return of their stolen freedom. Achieving national dignity, preserving their identity, and securing the exclusive right to self-determination remain the core objectives of the Baloch national struggle. The BNM envisions an independent Balochistan founded on humanitarian principles, where all citizens enjoy true equality and justice.
The conference was hosted by Jasim Baloch, with notable addresses delivered by Qambar Bakhsh, Manzoor Baloch, Abid Baloch, Husam Ibrahim, Bajar Ali, Bakhtiar Muhammad Azeem, and Abdul Ghaffar.
