'We are not Pakistani, we are Balochistani': Baloch leaders claim independence; urge India, UN for recognition

A prominent Baloch activist and writer, Mir Yar Baloch, shared a series of statements on social media last week proclaiming the formation of a “Republic of Balochistan”, calling on the Indian government to establish a Baloch embassy in New Delhi.

He also appealed to the United Nations to recognize the declaration and provide funding for basic state functions, including currency and passport issuance.

"Baloch Narrative !! Dear Indians patriot media, the YouTube comrades, the intellectuals fighting to defend Bharat are suggested not to refer to Balochs as 'Pakistan's Own People'. We are not Pakistani, we are Balochistani. Pakistan's own people are the Punjabi who never faced air bombings, enforced disappearances, and genocide," he said in another post.

He also posted images of people waving Baloch flags and maps depicting an independent Balochistan.

The posts come amid growing calls from Baloch leaders for greater international support, particularly from India.

The Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA), designated a terrorist organisation by Pakistan, claimed responsibility for 71 coordinated attacks across 51 locations in recent days as part of what it called “Operation Herof.”

The group said it targeted Pakistani military and intelligence facilities, police stations, mineral transport vehicles, and major highway infrastructure.

In a statement issued on May 11, the BLA said a “new order has become inevitable” in South Asia and stated that Pakistan’s military setbacks and use of religious extremism had created lasting instability.

The group rejected Pakistan’s proposal for ceasefire talks, describing them as a deceptive tactic.

It even urged global power, particularly India, not to trust Islamabad. The situation gained mileage more during the India-Pakistan tension.