Chaman: Members of nationalist political groups gathered in Chaman to strongly condemn what they described as Pakistan’s “oppressive policies” towards Pashtun and Baloch communities, vowing to reclaim their rights even if it means severing ties with the state.
Speaking at a protest meeting, various leaders from nationalist movements alleged that Pakistan has long exploited the region’s resources while denying its indigenous people their fundamental rights.
Asghar Khan Achakzai, the provincial president of the Awami National Party (ANP), issued a stern warning to the federal government, declaring: “We will either gain our rights or we will no longer recognize Punjab’s dominance. Our message is loud and clear: Pashtuns are being treated unjustly in their own land.”
Majid Kakar, a prominent figure from the Pashtun Protection Movement (PTM), called for stronger measures, claiming that peaceful demonstrations are no longer effective. “We must consider a national uprising and the creation of a defense force if we want to liberate Afghans and Baloch from continuous repression,” he said.
One of the rally’s focal points was opposition to the passport and visa regulations enforced at the Chaman–Spin Boldak border crossing. Protesters criticized the policy as a deliberate attempt to divide Pashtun communities on both sides of the Durand Line.
Nasrullah Khan Zeri, an ANP leader, rejected the new travel restrictions, asserting that cross-border movement should be permitted using national identity cards (Tazkira). “We refuse to acknowledge any passport requirement. This line cannot divide us,” he said.
Speakers also denounced Pakistan’s forced repatriation of Afghan refugees, framing it as part of a broader political strategy to marginalize ethnic groups and silence dissenting voices.
