India Behind The Lens (News Centre)

Balochistan, for most Indians, is just another part of Pakistan about which we don't care. However, a fact is that Balochistan region was an important region belonging to the Harrappan Civilization. From 1st century AD to 3rd century AD, the region was ruled by the Pāratarājas, believed to be the same as Pāradas   mentioned in the Vayu Puraan and Mahabharat too. Present day Balochistan covers around 40% of Pakistan and some parts of Iran and Afghanistan. The region used to enjoy autonomy under British rule but after division, just like Pakistani Army invaded parts of Kashmir (now PoK), they also invaded Balochistan, which had refused to accede to Pakistan. Since then, Baloch people have been fighting for independence. There have been army operations by Pakistan, to crush the movements. Pakistani army often indulges in atrocities and human right violations in the region.

To bring the issues to the awareness of common Indians, IBTL contacted Shri Abdul Bugti Baloch, a Baloch freedom fighter who is leading the campaign to, as he puts it, let the world know about atrocities of occupying Pakistani forces against Baloch nation, .. for the end of illegal occupation of their land. In this series, we'll be sharing the news-and-views of the 'Baloch Freedom Struggle'.