Balochistan, July 4, 2025 | By Hriday Raval
In a bold and revealing conversation, Hriday Raval spoke with Mir Yar Baloch(@miryar_baloch), a Baloch pro-independence activist and voice for his embattled people. The interview sheds critical light on the military occupation, systematic human rights abuses, and the aspirations for a Free Balochistan — a region long engulfed in silence by mainstream global media. In this exclusive, Mir Yar Baloch details both the current state of the area and the unwavering spirit of its people.
1. Could you describe the current on-ground situation in Balochistan — politically, militarily, and socially? How bad is the crackdown by the Pakistani forces?
1. Could you describe the current on-ground situation in Balochistan — politically, militarily, and socially? How bad is the crackdown by the Pakistani forces?
The evolving situation in the Republic of Balochistan indicates that effective control is gradually shifting from the Pakistani military to the indigenous Baloch population and pro-independence forces. This changing reality is now being acknowledged even within Pakistan’s own Parliament, including by individuals such as Maulana Fazal Ur Rehman, head of religious group Jamat e Islami and Oma Ayub of PTI and son of General Ayub Khan, the former Pakistan army chief, who historically aligned with the security establishment.
Due to prevailing security concerns, Pakistani politicians are increasingly unable to travel through Balochistan by road. Similarly, the military’s ground mobility has become highly restricted, necessitating aerial support for routine movements. As a result, much of the Pakistani military has been confined to fortified cantonments. Nevertheless, under significant strategic pressure from China, military offensives have intensified, primarily to safeguard infrastructure associated with the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) but the people of Balochistan are retaliating and skirmishes are occurring on daily bases.
China continues to provide comprehensive support to Pakistan, militarily, economically, diplomatically, and politically, which, unfortunately, is contributing to the intensification of conflict and gross human rights violations in the region. The people of Balochistan, however, have become increasingly politically conscious and socially unified. They possess a deep understanding of regional shifts and are firmly connected to grassroots political movements.
2. Recent reports suggest Baloch fighters took control of Mastung and torched government buildings. Was this a symbolic act of resistance, or is a larger freedom movement now underway?
2. Recent reports suggest Baloch fighters took control of Mastung and torched government buildings. Was this a symbolic act of resistance, or is a larger freedom movement now underway?
The people of Balochistan increasingly perceive the Pakistani military as an external force rather than a representative institution of their will. As a result, there has been a growing rejection of symbols and structures that are seen to represent Pakistan’s authority in the region. A notable instance occurred over a decade ago when Baloch Liberation Army targeted the former residence of Muhammad Ali Jinnah in Ziarat district Loralai, which was viewed locally as a symbol of forced annexation. The historical memory of Balochistan’s coerced incorporation into Pakistan, by forcing the -Khan of Kalat, Mir Ahmad Yar Khan, to sign the instrument of annexation under duress, laying the groundwork for long-standing tensions.
There is now a widespread desire among the Baloch population to reclaim their historical and cultural identity. This includes calls to rename roads and public spaces in honor of Baloch national figures and heritage. Supported by local communities, Baloch pro-independence groups are gradually expanding their presence and seeking to assert greater control over their land. Parallel to this, there is a growing resistance to the perceived economic exploitation of Balochistan’s natural resources, particularly by external actors.
3. How would you respond to Pakistan’s branding of Baloch nationalists as “terrorists”?
3. How would you respond to Pakistan’s branding of Baloch nationalists as “terrorists”?
Regarding Pakistan’s repeated attempts to label the Baloch national movement as “terrorism,” it is important to clarify that such characterizations are not taken seriously by those familiar with the realities on the ground. These narratives are widely seen as efforts to discredit a legitimate, lawful, and historically grounded struggle for independence.
History is replete with examples where occupying powers have used similar rhetoric. During the British colonial rule over the Indian subcontinent, revered leaders like Bhagat Singh, Subhash Chandra Bose, Mahatma Gandhi, and many others were branded as “terrorists” by the colonial administration. Today, those very individuals are celebrated globally as symbols of justice, resistance, and national dignity. In the same way, the Baloch people’s pursuit of freedom and autonomy must be understood in its rightful context, as a struggle for rights, recognition, and peace, not through the lens of imposed and politically motivated labels by the occupying state of Pakistan.
4. What role does the Pakistan Army and ISI play in suppressing your people? Are there confirmed human rights abuses you’d like to highlight?
4. What role does the Pakistan Army and ISI play in suppressing your people? Are there confirmed human rights abuses you’d like to highlight?
The historical record of military operations conducted by Pakistani forces in Balochistan is extensive and continues to be a source of deep concern for the Baloch people. Since March 27, 1948, the day the Pakistani military first entered Balochistan, there have been naked proof of Pakistan’s war crimes and gross violations of human rights.
Over time, the nature and intensity of these aggressions have evolved, often leaving a significant humanitarian impact on the local population. Notably, during the military offensives of the early 1970s, large-scale aerial bombardments were reported in regions including Kohistan-e-Mari, Kahan, Kohlu, Barkhan, suburbs of Dera Bugti’s, Sibi, Bolan, and parts of the Jhalawan region. Reports from that period suggest that these operations involved the use of advanced weaponry and air force.
These events represent a painful chapter in Balochistan’s modern history and underscore the urgent need for credible, independent inquiries into human rights abuses and war crimes. Addressing these concerns through transparent dialogue and international legal frameworks is essential for any sustainable path to justice, and long-term peace in the region.
5. The Pakistani state often uses the term “foreign hand” to discredit the Baloch freedom movement. How do you respond to these allegations?
5. The Pakistani state often uses the term “foreign hand” to discredit the Baloch freedom movement. How do you respond to these allegations?
The ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine demonstrates how strategic international support can significantly impact the trajectory of a nation’s defense and sovereignty. Ukraine has received substantial backing from global powers, particularly in the form of advanced military assistance from European countries. This support has strengthened its ability to resist aggression and defend its territorial integrity.
In contrast, the Baloch people, despite enduring over seven decades of political marginalization, armed conflict, and human rights violations, have continued their struggle largely without external support. Had the Baloch national movement received comparable international assistance, including access to modern defense and communication capabilities, it is conceivable that the region would have achieved a peaceful and dignified resolution to its status long ago, avoiding decades of loss, displacement, and instability.
Today, there is an urgent need for the international community to recognize and respond to the humanitarian and political crisis in Balochistan. The republic of Balochistan has reportedly lost close to 200,000 lives due to Pakistani military aggressions, and state violence, and its economy has suffered billions in damages. Despite these sacrifices, the voices of the Baloch people remain underrepresented on the global stage.
6. What is the sentiment among the Baloch youth today — are they leaning more toward resistance, or is there fear?
6. What is the sentiment among the Baloch youth today — are they leaning more toward resistance, or is there fear?
The notion of fear holds little relevance for the Baloch people, whose resilience has been demonstrated through their continued and courageous resistance, often unarmed, against a significantly larger and better-equipped military force of Pakistan. Despite facing massive military crackdown, the Baloch have exhibited extraordinary determination and resolve in pursuit of their political and human rights.
The ongoing struggle for regaining victory over Pakistan’s occupational forces in Balochistan has now entered its third decade. A generation of Baloch youth has come of age witnessing the impacts of this protracted conflict, many of them is not only observers but also direct victims of state violence and displacement. Their lived experiences have shaped a collective consciousness rooted in dignity, justice, and national identity.
The Baloch people have embraced their movement as an integral part of their national existence. And history has shown that when a people internalize a cause and commit themselves to it across generations, even the most powerful forces cannot defeat their will. Though they may lack material resources, their aspirations are firmly grounded, and their vision is both powerful and unwavering. In this context, it is essential for the international community to recognize that the strength of a people lies not solely in military means but in the conviction of their principles. The Baloch struggle, sustained by an unshakable sense of purpose and identity, reflects precisely that form of enduring strength.
7. How do you view India’s stance on Balochistan? Has India done enough diplomatically, or would you like to see a stronger stand?
7. How do you view India’s stance on Balochistan? Has India done enough diplomatically, or would you like to see a stronger stand?
When we assess India and Pakistan in terms of strategic depth, economic strength, and global diplomatic standing, it is clear that India holds a position of significantly greater influence and respect on the world stage. India is widely regarded as a responsible and emerging global power. However, with regard to the situation in Balochistan, it is observed that India has thus far not incorporated the Baloch issue into its broader foreign policy framework, despite the fact that the Baloch national movement continues to seek rightful attention and advocacy at the international level.
Historically, the people of India have expressed moral support for the Baloch cause, and the Baloch nation, in turn, considers India a longstanding and trusted regional partner. During times of heightened regional insecurity, such as the tragic terrorist attack in Pahalgam, which claimed the lives of innocent tourists, Balochistan’s people stood in solidarity with India. During India’s subsequent military response, known as “Operation Sindoor,” over sixty million Baloch expressed their support, reaffirming a bond built on shared values and mutual understanding.
8. What message would you like to send to the Indian people, especially those who are standing in solidarity with Balochistan?
8. What message would you like to send to the Indian people, especially those who are standing in solidarity with Balochistan?
The future of the region rests in the shared aspirations of India and Balochistan. For centuries, our peoples have coexisted across this land as part of a rich civilizational heritage, and we remain committed to working together toward peace, progress, and the collective well-being of humanity.
The sacred Hinglaj Mata Temple, located in Balochistan, holds deep spiritual significance for millions across India. It is a revered heritage site that the Baloch people are proud to safeguard with utmost respect. When Balochistan achieves its rightful place as a free and sovereign nation under the stewardship of its own people, we will be honored to extend a warm and open invitation to the 1.4 billion people of India to visit our land. We will ensure that every devotee who wishes to pay respects at Hinglaj Mata is welcomed with dignity, hospitality, and reverence.
This vision reflects our commitment to shared peace, interfaith harmony, and a future where historic ties between our peoples are celebrated and advanced in a spirit of partnership and mutual respect.
9. Do you see Balochistan one day becoming an independent nation? What does a “Free Balochistan” look like to you?
9. Do you see Balochistan one day becoming an independent nation? What does a “Free Balochistan” look like to you?
Balochistan is viewed by its people as a sovereign nation with its own distinct identity, even though it currently remains under the administrative and military control of Pakistan and Iran. Historical precedents remind us that foreign occupations are not permanent. Just as the Soviet Union eventually withdrew from Afghanistan, and later, the United States and NATO concluded their two-decade presence there, it is anticipated that Pakistan’s externally positioned forces will, in time, also withdraw from Balochistan. When that moment arrives, the people of Balochistan will be entitled to shape their own political future, in accordance with their will and aspirations.
The vision for an independent Balochistan is grounded in democratic values, constitutional governance, and inclusive development. The Free Balochistan Movement, under the leadership of Mr. Hyrbyair Marri, has introduced a well-defined roadmap for a united and democratic Balochistan. This framework promises the establishment of a democratic government immediately following any peaceful transition. A core principle of this future governance structure is the implementation of a “one person, one vote” electoral system to ensure fairness, inclusivity, and transparency.
For the first time, the proposed national blueprint, the Balochistan Liberation Charter, has been published in eleven languages, including Urdu, English, Balochi, Brahui, Hindi, Punjabi, Marathi, Gujarati, Pashto, Farsi, and Arabic, reflecting a commitment to inclusivity, accessibility, and multicultural engagement.
The Charter guarantees equal rights for women, affirms the separation of religion from state affairs, and envisions a secular republic where religious tolerance and civic harmony are protected. It categorically rejects extremism, sectarianism, and all forms of religious or ideological coercion. Furthermore, it calls for the elimination of feudal structures and unregulated capitalism, ensuring that all natural resources will be transparently managed under state ownership for the benefit of the people.
To safeguard public safety and prevent violence, the Charter proposes firm regulations against the possession of private weaponry, drawing lessons from other nations where lax gun laws have led to incidents of mass violence in schools and public spaces.
The Charter also places strong emphasis on universal access to education and healthcare. It outlines a vision for building transparent institutions of justice, ensuring equality before the law, and promoting accountability in governance. Moreover, it encourages responsible and regulated foreign investment as a tool for national development and economic cooperation with the international community. This democratic vision for Balochistan is designed not only to heal past wounds but to establish a peaceful, pluralistic, and forward-looking nation that contributes constructively to regional and global stability.
10. Finally, what is your direct message to international bodies like the @UN, @amnesty, @hrw, and world leaders who remain silent?
10. Finally, what is your direct message to international bodies like the @UN, @amnesty, @hrw, and world leaders who remain silent?
On behalf of the people of Balochistan, I respectfully submit a sincere message to the international community and global institutions: For more than seventy-seven years, the world has engaged with a state that has unfortunately contributed little beyond regional instability, ideological extremism, proxy warfare, and an unsustainable reliance on foreign debt. The terror epicenter of Pakistan, despite its commitments at global forums, has persistently failed in promoting peace, transparency, and cooperative development.
It is important to acknowledge that much of what Pakistan has projected to the world, particularly in relation to economic potential, has been based on a misrepresentation of facts. Pakistan’s repeated claims over vast mineral resources and strategic coastline have, in reality, referred to territories that are historically, culturally, and geographically part of Balochistan. For decades, these assets have been exploited without the consent of the Baloch people, while the economic and political benefits have served only the interests of narrow ruling elite who have been sponsoring religious groups including ISIS and Al Qaida.
We urge the international community to reassess its engagement with the region, and to recognize that the path forward lies not through continued support to militarized governance and radical state of Pakistan, but through inclusive dialogue, democratic principles, and the right of Baloch peoples to determine their own future.
Balochistan stands ready to work with all responsible global partners to advance peace, stability, and shared prosperity in South and Central Asia.
