in Balochistan and on Kalabagh Dam

 
January 6, 2006. Washington, DC. – The World Sindhi Institute condemns the ongoing military operation in Balochistan and calls for an independent human rights investigation.  Since December 18th, the Pakistan security forces have been carrying out attacks in the Kohlu and Dera Bugti districts of Balochistan using helicopter gunships and fighter jets.  Over one hundred people have been killed, among them many innocent women and children.  At first denying the attacks, then calling them just a law and order operation, the army’s brutal tactics are unlikely to resolve any conflict or grievances between the Baloch people and the central government.
 
At the same time, the government of Gen. Parvez Musharraf is aggressively pushing its policy of constructing the Kalabagh dam, despite massive opposition from the majority of the Pakistani people, including those in Sindh, NWFP, Balochistan, and even Punjab.  In the face of demonstrations, rallies and public statements of opposition during the last weeks and months by officials and political leaders from all walks of life, Musharraf and his cabinet are insisting that the project will go ahead.  Such blatant disregard for the desires of the people must be countered.
 
WSI cannot keep silent in the face of these attacks against innocent people.  To express its opposition to these anti-democratic actions, a series of rallies will take place on successive Mondays, beginning on Monday, February 6th.  Sindhis, Baloch, Pakhtuns and their supporters will gather in front of Pakistan consulates to register their opposition.  The series of rallies will begin in Washington, DC, followed by Chicago, Houston, Los Angeles, New York City and Toronto, Canada.  More information on these actions will be broadcast shortly, including the dates, times and locations.  All people who are concerned about these issues are urged to participate and register their voices.