London: The Republic of Balochistan has called upon Baloch people across Balochistan and abroad to observe August 14 as a “Black Day”, urging them to distance themselves from Pakistan’s Independence Day celebrations.
In a statement issued on August 13, the Republic of Balochistan claimed that Pakistan and Balochistan are separate entities and asserted that Balochistan has a distinct history, language, culture, geography and identity. It said the Baloch identity does not depend on what it described as Pakistan’s “fabricated” narrative.
The statement further alleged that Pakistan was created as a consequence of the British partition of India and accused successive Pakistani governments and the military of serving external interests in the region.
The Republic of Balochistan also criticised Pakistan’s military role in regional conflicts, alleging that Islamabad has used Balochistan’s strategic geography, coastline and natural resources to advance instability in the region.
Black Flags, Armbands and Protest Call
According to the statement, Baloch people are being urged to hoist black flags at homes and educational institutions and wear black armbands on August 14 as a symbolic expression of their disassociation from Pakistan.
The statement also called for Pakistani flags displayed in Balochistan to be removed, arguing that the Balochistan leadership considers the territory an independent and sovereign country.
The Republic of Balochistan further claimed that Pakistan’s military would attempt to conduct Independence Day celebrations amid heightened security, while asserting that many Baloch people regard Pakistan as an occupying power.
Reference to Recent Surab-Gadar-Gondon Attack
The statement also referred to an alleged Pakistani military and air-force attack in the Surab-Gadar-Gondon area, claiming that nearly 30 civilians, including women and children, were killed and dozens injured.
The Republic of Balochistan used the alleged incident to argue that Pakistan’s Independence Day celebrations are incompatible with what it described as Baloch history, culture and traditions.
The appeal was addressed to the estimated six crore Baloch people worldwide, calling on them to observe August 14 as a day of protest and remembrance rather than participate in Pakistan’s Independence Day festivities.
