Balochistan, located in Pakistan’s southwest, has officially declared August 11 as its Independence Day after announcing its intent to separate from Pakistan. The declaration also includes an appeal to the international community to recognise Balochistan as an independent country.
The region is described as Pakistan’s largest province by area and rich in natural resources, with significant strategic importance. It has witnessed a long-running movement seeking independence from Pakistan.
According to the announcement, Balochistan was declared an independent state on August 11, 1947, before India gained freedom from British rule. It said Pakistan’s military forcibly took control of Balochistan on March 27, 1948, and merged it into Pakistan, after which Baloch people have continued to resist.
Recently, Balochistan liberation groups stated that they would function as a separate nation. Following this, liberation organisations and national leaders jointly announced that August 11 will be observed every year as Balochistan’s Independence Day.
The statement also called on the public to hoist the Balochistan national flag at homes, educational institutions and public places. Balochistan’s leaders further urged world nations, including India, to support their struggle and extend recognition to Balochistan as a separate country.
