By Mahendra Singh
On May 14, 2025, the Baloch people, led by the courageous Mir Yar Baloch, declared the “Republic of Balochistan,” demanding freedom from Pakistan’s grip. As someone who believes in justice and the right of every people to shape their destiny, I feel compelled to share their story—a story of resilience, betrayal, and an unyielding quest for self-determination. Mir Yar Baloch’s plea for support from India and the United Nations isn’t just a cry for help; it’s a call to the world to recognize a truth I’ve come to see clearly: Balochistan was never rightfully part of Pakistan. Pakistan’s occupation, rooted in force and deceit, has robbed the Baloch of their freedom for 77 years. Let me take you through their history, one that proves their right to independence and why I stand firmly with their cause.
Balochistan’s Proud Legacy as a Sovereign Land
As I dug into Balochistan’s past, I was struck by its rich, independent history. The Baloch, with their distinct language, culture, and tribal traditions, have called this vast, resource-rich land home for centuries. At the heart of their story is the Khanate of Kalat, a princely state founded in the 17th century that embodied Baloch sovereignty. Unlike many regions under British rule, Kalat wasn’t just another princely state. In 1876, the British signed the Treaty of Mastung, recognizing Kalat’s autonomy in exchange for strategic cooperation. This wasn’t a minor detail—it meant the British saw Kalat as a distinct entity, not a vassal of colonial India.
Fast forward to August 11, 1947, just days before Pakistan came into being. The Khan of Kalat, Ahmad Yar Khan, declared Balochistan’s independence. I found this moment pivotal: both houses of Kalat’s parliament, the Dar-ul-Awam and Dar-ul-Umara, unanimously rejected joining Pakistan. They signed a Standstill Agreement with the British, affirming Kalat’s sovereignty while negotiations loomed. To me, this is undeniable proof—Balochistan stood as a free nation, separate from the Pakistan that was about to be born. How, then, did it fall under Pakistan’s control? The answer lies in a betrayal that still fuels the Baloch struggle.
Pakistan’s Brutal Annexation
The more I learned, the clearer it became that Pakistan’s claim over Balochistan was built on coercion. In March 1948, barely eight months after Pakistan’s formation, its army moved against Kalat. Under intense military pressure, the Khan was forced to sign the Instrument of Accession on March 27, 1948. Historical accounts I’ve read describe this as anything but voluntary—Pakistan’s leaders, including Muhammad Ali Jinnah himself, used threats to subdue a leader with no standing army to resist. The operation, led by Major General Akbar Khan, crushed Baloch hopes, but not their spirit. The Khan’s brother, Prince Abdul Karim, launched a rebellion that same year, a defiance that echoes in today’s fight.
To me, this wasn’t just a political maneuver; it was an act of aggression, a colonial-style land grab. The Baloch people, through their elected representatives, had said no to Pakistan. Ignoring their will, Pakistan absorbed Kalat by 1955, cementing an occupation that violated every principle of self-determination. When I see Mir Yar Baloch declare on X that Balochistan was “the first and immediate victim” of Pakistan’s expansionism, I can’t help but agree. This history isn’t just a footnote—it’s the foundation of why Balochistan deserves to be free.
A Land Exploited, A People Silenced
What angers me most is how Pakistan has treated Balochistan since 1948. This is a land rich in gas, minerals, and coastal wealth, yet its people live in poverty. The Sui gas field, discovered in 1952, powers much of Pakistan, but many Baloch villages lack gas or electricity. The China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), with its gleaming promises, funnels profits to outsiders while locals see little benefit. As I researched, I found reports confirming Balochistan’s status as Pakistan’s poorest province despite its resources—a stark injustice.
Worse still is the human cost. Human Rights Watch and Amnesty International have documented thousands of enforced disappearances, killings, and abductions targeting Baloch activists, students, and journalists. The Baloch Liberation Army (BLA), born from this oppression, fights back with operations like “Herof,” targeting Pakistani military posts. Their recent attacks, reported across X, show a people pushed to the brink. When I read about families torn apart by Pakistan’s crackdowns, I feel a moral duty to speak out. How can we stay silent when a people are punished for demanding their rights?
The Republic of Balochistan: A Call I Can’t Ignore
On May 14, 2025, Mir Yar Baloch’s declaration of the “Republic of Balochistan” hit me hard. His words on X—“Balochistan Is Not Pakistan”—carry the weight of history and pain. He’s appealed to India to open a Baloch embassy in Delhi and to the UN for peacekeeping support. The hashtag #RepublicOfBalochistan, trending with images of Baloch flags, shows a movement gaining momentum. To me, this isn’t just a political statement; it’s a demand for justice, rooted in the fact that Balochistan was independent in 1947 before Pakistan’s tanks rolled in.
I believe Balochistan’s case is ironclad. Historically, the Khanate of Kalat’s sovereignty and 1947 independence prove it was never Pakistan’s to take. Morally, the exploitation and abuses—gas fields plundered, voices silenced—demand redress. Legally, Pakistan’s annexation ignored Baloch consent, violating international law. The UN Charter’s principle of self-determination is on their side, and I’m convinced the world must listen.
Why I’m Calling for Action
As I write this, I’m not just sharing facts—I’m urging you to care. Balochistan’s fight is our fight, a stand against oppression and for the right to exist as a free people. I support Mir Yar Baloch’s call for India to recognize Balochistan, especially since India knows the cost of Pakistan’s aggression. The UN must step in, investigate Pakistan’s abuses, and pave the way for a referendum on Baloch self-determination. Pakistan’s leaders, who’ve labeled the BLA terrorists while ignoring their own actions, can’t dodge accountability forever.
The Baloch have fought for 77 years—through rebellions, protests, and now a bold declaration of independence. When Mir Yar Baloch says the world can’t be a silent spectator, I hear a challenge to us all. I stand with Balochistan because their cause is just, their history undeniable, and their courage inspiring. Let’s amplify their voice and help the “Republic of Balochistan” rise as a free nation. Join me in supporting their fight for freedom.