Baloch students are on streets again, mobilising people in masses not seen before. They are once again bringing to the forefront the deep-seated issues of marginalisation, discrimination, and the quest for justice that have plagued the Baloch community for decades. The voices of these students, often stifled and ignored, are now resonating across the nation, demanding not only immediate redressal of their grievances but also a long-term commitment to addressing the systemic injustices they face.
At the heart of these protests lies the issue of enforced disappearances, a grim reality that has scarred countless families in Balochistan. Students, many of whom are the sons, daughters, or relatives of those who have disappeared, are demanding answers from the state. They are not just fighting for their right to education but also for the right to live without the constant fear of losing their loved ones to the shadows of unaccountable power. The disappearance of Baloch students themselves, who are often picked up by “unknown actors” without due process, has become a chilling reminder of the dangerous environment they navigate daily.
The protests, which have gained momentum in recent months, are not just about individual cases but also about the larger issue of state neglect and the lack of investment in the province of Balochistan, despite being rich in natural resources, remains one of the most underdeveloped regions in Pakistan. The education system, particularly at the higher levels, suffers from chronic underfunding, inadequate facilities, and a lack of qualified teachers. For Baloch students who manage to reach universities in other parts of the country, the challenges continue in the form of racial profiling, harassment, and discrimination.
The recent incidents at prestigious institutions like the Quaid-e-Azam University in Islamabad, where Baloch students were allegedly subjected to racial slurs and unjust treatment, have only exacerbated their sense of alienation. Such incidents reveal a deep-rooted prejudice that not only undermines the social fabric of our educational institutions but also tarnishes the very principles of equality and justice that these institutions are supposed to uphold.
The state’s response to these protests has been disappointingly predictable — heavy-handedness, labels and accusations of anti-Pakistan activities, arrests, violent crackdowns, firing of live bullets, and a reluctance to engage in meaningful dialogue. This approach not only fails to address the core issues but also fuels further resentment and distrust among the Baloch youth. The use of force against peaceful protesters, particularly students, is a grave violation of democratic norms and an affront to the principles of free expression and assembly.
What is needed now more than ever is an empathic and constructive approach. The state must recognise the legitimacy of the students’ demands and take immediate steps to address their grievances. This includes a transparent investigation into the cases of enforced disappearances, ensuring the safety and security of Baloch students on campuses, and creating an inclusive environment where they can pursue their education without fear of discrimination or harassment.
Furthermore, there is an urgent need for systemic reforms that go beyond the immediate crisis. The federal and provincial governments must prioritise education in Balochistan, allocating adequate resources to improve infrastructure, recruit qualified educators, and provide scholarships to Baloch students. Moreover, there must be a concerted effort to promote inclusivity and understanding within educational institutions across Pakistan, fostering an environment where diversity is celebrated rather than shunned.
The protests by Baloch students are not just a cry for help; they are a call to action for all Pakistanis who believe in justice, equality, and human rights. The state must heed this call, not with repression, but with a genuine commitment to reform and reconciliation. Ignoring the voices of these students will only deepen the wounds of alienation and injustice that have long festered in Balochistan. The wounds of 1971 are not that old for us to not remember the consequences if calls for justice by a people are actively crushed.
It is time for Pakistan to confront the uncomfortable truths about how it treats its most vulnerable citizens. It is time to listen to the voices of Baloch students, to understand their pain, and to work towards a future where every Pakistani, regardless of their ethnicity or province, can live with dignity, security, and hope.
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