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Balochistan issue raised with Obama's Special Representative James Dobbins

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ANI Washington

Dr. Wahid sought U.S. intervention in resolving the decades' long issue of Balochistan during his meeting with Dobbins.

He drew his attention to the ongoing military operation, human rights violations and enforced disappearances in Balochistan, Pakistan's largest province.

The Baloch nationalists claim that their territory was forcefully occupied by Pakistan in 1948 and are demanding sovereignty to preserve their resources, culture and tradition.

In the years-long conflict, thousands of Balochs have lost their lives. Hundreds of them have been allegedly been kidnapped by Pakistan's spy agency, ISI and Military Intelligence.

Balochs have also complained about the lack of economic development and basic facilities like education, healthcare and employment in the region.

 

Dr. Wahid has in the past met US Vice President Joe Biden and several other top US lawmakers to draw their attention towards the situation in Balochistan.

In his letter to the envoy, he has called for intervention from the United Nations and the International Community in order to safeguard the lives of Baloch people.

There have been constant demands to restore Balochistan's status as an independent sovereign state as per the international laws, so that the people can lead a life without fear.

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First Published: Jul 17 2013 | 8:28 PM IST

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