Baloch activist Aomar Karim has initiated a peaceful hunger strike outside the official residence of the British Prime Minister at 10 Downing Street in London. The protest, which began on Thursday, is aimed at drawing international attention to what Karim describes as Pakistan's continued crackdown on Baloch political activists and ongoing human rights violations in Balochistan.
Details of the Protest
In a post shared on X, Karim stated that the hunger strike would continue until Friday, 3 July, at 6:30 PM. The protest was prompted by the recent life imprisonment of Baloch rights activists Mahrang Baloch and Sibghatullah Shahji, as well as the continued detention of Beebow Baloch, Bebarg Zehri, and Gulzadi Baloch.
"This injustice cannot be ignored," Karim wrote, emphasizing that his demonstration seeks to highlight the plight of Baloch activists and what he characterizes as systematic human rights abuses in Pakistan.
Protest Schedule and Appeal
Karim plans to remain outside 10 Downing Street through Thursday and Friday, then move the protest to the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) on King Charles Street on Friday. He issued a public appeal urging journalists, Members of Parliament, human rights organizations, members of the Baloch diaspora, and the wider public to join the demonstration.
"Every hour of solidarity matters," he said, encouraging attendance to amplify calls for international action.
Context of Balochistan Crisis
The region of Balochistan remains plagued by a concerning trend of enforced disappearances. Some victims are eventually released, while others face extended detention or fall victim to targeted killings. These violations of fundamental rights have heightened insecurity and distrust among the local population. The ongoing threat of arbitrary arrests and the lack of accountability continue to destabilize Balochistan, eroding efforts to restore peace, justice, and public trust in state institutions.
