Latest news with #Marri
India Gazette
23-05-2025
- Politics
- India Gazette
"Balochistan is an open-air prison, and world looks away": Baloch leader Mehran Marri
London [UK], May 23 (ANI): Baloch leader Mehran Marri has accused Pakistan of unlawfully occupying Balochistan since 1948, transforming the region into a heavily militarised zone where the rights of the local population are systematically violated. In an exclusive interview with ANI, Marri drew comparisons with global conflicts to highlight what he described as the West's selective concern for human rights. 'While the world rallies behind Ukraine and Palestine, Balochistan remains ignored,' he said. Marri claimed that Balochistan was a sovereign entity before being forcibly annexed by Pakistan on March 28, 1948, just nine months after its independence. He argued that the international community has continued to overlook Balochistan's plight due to geopolitical considerations. 'Pakistan is not a democracy. It's a military-operated enterprise, with generals controlling everything from real estate to food industries,' he alleged. He further criticised what is known in Pakistan as the 'establishment' - a nexus of the military, parliament, and judiciary - as working collectively to stifle dissent. 'Pakistan is not a typical country. It resembles an open-air prison,' Marri said, adding that civil liberties in Balochistan are virtually non-existent. Marri condemned the widespread use of enforced disappearances and media censorship in Balochistan, describing them as deliberate tactics used to instil fear and silence dissent. He noted that such practices have persisted since the rule of former President Pervez Musharraf and remain central to the military's strategy of control. Regarding economic marginalisation, Marri described it as 'an added insult to injury.' He highlighted the irony of Balochistan's immense natural resources being exploited while the local population remains impoverished. 'People in Gwadar go to bed hungry while luxury hotels rise around them,' he said. Marri also criticised the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) as another mechanism for resource extraction, though he expressed hope that China may eventually reassess its involvement. Commenting on India's recent Operation Sindoor against terrorist networks in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK), Marri voiced strong support. He called the Operation 'monumental and long overdue,' urging India to pursue it as a long-term campaign against terrorism, similar to the United States' post-9/11 strategy. 'Once Operation Sindoor achieves its objectives, we hope Balochistan's liberation will be part of the outcome,' he concluded. (ANI)
Business Recorder
15-05-2025
- Business
- Business Recorder
Gwadar development: Senate panel calls for concrete steps
ISLAMABAD: Senator Quratulain Marri stressed that basic need such as water supply must be prioritised over tourism in Gwadar. 'A master plan is not just about tourism; it must first ensure the welfare of local residents.' Presiding the Senate Standing Committee on Planning, Development and Special Initiatives, to review key development initiatives, project delays, and progress under the Public Sector Development Programme (PSDP) 2024–25, here on Thursday, Senator Marri asked for a clear strategy on how proposed investments would yield tangible incentives for development in the region. The secretary Ministry of Communications briefed the committee, on the Sukkur Karachi Motorway project and ongoing negotiations with the Government of Azerbaijan. He noted that discussions have also been initiated with the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) with expectations that the bank will fund Section IV (Naushehro Feroz Ranipur) and Section V (Ranipur Sukkur), and also that there is anticipation to obtain board approval by September 2025. The chairperson, Senator Quratulain Marri, suggested that the project must not face delays beyond September 2025 and called for a detailed list of deliverables along with monthly progress reports to be shared with the committee. On the Hunza-Khunjerab Road, officials informed that 11 damaged sections have been identified, and repair work is underway. The committee also received a briefing on inspection report by Monitoring Wing, Ministry of Planning, Development and Special Initiatives on inspection of dam and update on projects of dam construction in Balochistan till date. After reviewing inconsistencies in progress, Senator Marri recommended summoning representatives from WAPDA and the Monitoring and Evaluation team in the next meeting to individually review each dam project and determine causes of delay. In a detailed discussion on the Gwadar Master Plan, the committee reviewed fund allocations, disbursements, and investment strategies. The chairperson committee expressed concern over the delay in the Safe City Project and highlighted a discrepancy: while the Gwadar Development Authority cited reason of lack of funds, the Finance Division confirmed no funding demand was received from the Government of Balochistan. She urged for formal demand procedures to be followed. Senator Manzoor Ahmed raised concerns regarding the protection of small fishermen's rights and questioned the steps taken by the Government of Balochistan in this regard. Senator Marri endorsed his concerns and directed the CPEC Chief Officer, Balochistan, to follow up. Moreover, officials from the Gwadar Development Authority denied the presence of a tanker mafia. Senator Marri expressed that a comprehensive report in July would help clarify the ground realities. The committee was also informed that port charges at Pakistani seaports, particularly Gwadar, and Port Qasim are higher than at any other port in the region. Senator Marri questioned the justification for these higher charges. Officials clarified that the fees are imposed by Customs and the Gwadar Port Authority. The Committee noted that despite Gwadar's strategic importance offering China a reduced maritime route of 2,000 nautical miles compared to the current 10,000 via Xinjiang it remains underutilised. In 2009, 70 ships docked at Gwadar Port, while in 2024, only four arrived. Officials further pointed out that despite being developed after Gwadar, Chabahar Port in Iran is now fully operational, whereas Gwadar remains non-functional. The committee also reviewed fourth quarter PSDP 2024–25 fund utilisation. The secretary Ministry of Planning, Development and Special Initiatives (MoPD&SI), stated that total authorisation stands at Rs1,002.46 billion, with the challenge now being full utilisation by 30 June 2025. While reviewing ministry-wise performance, Senator Marri expressed concern over low expenditures: only seven per cent utilised by the Finance Division, four per cent by Maritime Affairs, and 0 per cent by the Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony Division. She recommended that detailed fund utilization reports be shared with respective Senate Standing Committees for further review. The meeting was attended by senators, Saadia Abbasi, Shahadat Awan, Jam Saifullah Khan, and Manzoor Ahmed, along with secretaries from the Planning and Communications ministries, chairman NHA, and senior officials from relevant departments. Copyright Business Recorder, 2025
Al Etihad
14-05-2025
- Business
- Al Etihad
Saif bin Zayed inaugurates 4th edition of World Police Summit
14 May 2025 09:47 DUBAI (WAM) His Highness Lt. General Sheikh Saif bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of the Interior, H.H. Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, President of Dubai Civil Aviation Authority, Chairman of Dubai Airports, and Chairman and Chief Executive of Emirates Airline and Group, and H.H. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum attended the fourth edition of the World Police Summit on Tuesday at the Dubai World Trade summit is held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE, and Ruler of opening ceremony was also attended by global police leaders, international experts, and key decision-makers in the security sector to address global challenges and exchange best by Dubai Police in partnership with DXB Live, the three-day summit is held under the theme 'Envisioning the Future of Policing.'It brings together over 300 speakers and experts from around the world, representing more than 100 countries, global law enforcement agencies, and over 200 specialised security and technology the opening ceremony, the Commander-in-Chief of Dubai Police, Lieutenant General Abdullah Khalifa Al Marri, delivered the welcome address, expressing his honour in hosting the summit and extending a warm welcome to international Marri noted the rise of transnational crime and the increasing threat of cybercrime, including AI-powered scams, dark web activity, and digital fraud. He referenced INTERPOL reports that revealed over 100 billion stolen personal and financial records were traded on the dark web in 2024 alone, a 42 percent increase from the previous year. Ransomware attacks accounted for roughly 25 percent of global cyber insurance also emphasised Dubai Police's commitment to sharing its experience in integrating policing with cutting-edge technology, highlighting global initiatives such as the International Anti-Narcotics Forum, Anti-Fraud Forum, UAE SWAT Challenge, and the Police Innovation and Leadership (PIL) Diploma. These events collectively attracted participation from 110 countries, showcasing the UAE's leadership in fostering global security Marri concluded by affirming that community safety is a shared responsibility requiring cross-border cooperation, and he expressed hope that the summit would produce actionable recommendations to shape a safer, more prosperous his address, a short film was screened highlighting the achievements of the sixth edition of the UAE SWAT Challenge, which earned a Guinness World Record for the highest number of participating countries in a tactical competition, with over 100 teams taking his keynote speech, John Romero, renowned video game designer and co-creator of Doom, shed light on cybercrime's impact on the gaming industry. He revealed that the sector loses an estimated $29 billion annually due to cheating and illegal hacking. Companies have invested around $13.5 billion in anti-cheat technologies, while black-market activities generate $50 million in illicit outlined how hackers exploit game systems through unfair advantages like auto-aiming and in-game speed hacks, and how designers now use AI and behavioural analytics to detect anomalies, flag cheaters, and secure game stressed that just as hackers use advanced tech to exploit games, developers are harnessing those same tools, including machine learning, to maintain fair, safe, and trustworthy gaming Highness Lt. General Sheikh Saif bin Zayed inaugurated the accompanying exhibition, which showcases the latest innovations and technologies across multiple domains, including cybercrime investigation, forensic science, artificial intelligence, airport security, drone systems, smart mobility, narcotics control, and digital policing readiness. The summit continues over the next two days with high-level discussions, workshops, and networking sessions aimed at shaping the future of global policing and strengthening international cooperation.
Express Tribune
10-03-2025
- Express Tribune
Sindh's crocodiles are 'dervishes': SWD official
Owing to its unattractive appearance and formidable body, people often feel uneasy around crocodiles and tend to keep their distance. But they are not as dangerous as they appear! There is no official survey on the total population of crocodiles in Sindh. Their presence is quite noticeable in certain areas, including Deh Akro (Hub Dam) and Nara Canal (Sukkur). On February 28, in a remote area of Sanghar district, a local resident, Ajmal Das, spotted a suspicious object in a water canal. Believing it to be a fish, he attempted to catch it. To his surprise, it turned out to be the body of a marsh crocodile, which, according to his statement, had already begun to decompose and was emitting a foul odor. He reported the discovery to local officials from the Sindh Wildlife Department (SWD), who promptly arrived at the scene and took possession of the body. "It was already dead when we reached the spot," said Asad Marri, the district SWD official, while speaking to The Express Tribune. "After a thorough examination, it was immediately buried, as decomposition had already set in," he added. According to officials, the area is not a natural habitat for crocodiles, though they are occasionally spotted in water canals. There have been no reports of crocodile attacks in the region. "No one has confirmed seeing live crocodiles in the same area where this body was found," Marri stated. Interestingly, about two weeks earlier, Marri and his team had spotted another crocodile carcass approximately 30 kilometers from the present location. He suspected it might have been the same body. "The water current was too strong for us to retrieve it at the time," he explained. As per the information from the wildlife experts, there are roughly 26 species of crocodiles worldwide, but in Pakistan, the marsh crocodile is the most commonly found, particularly in Sindh and Balochistan. The marsh crocodile's body is not considered valuable in the leather industry, unlike the Nile and Saltwater crocodiles, which are prized for their durable and high-quality leather. The marsh crocodile is known to be relatively inactive and is classified as an ambush predator. It can survive for up to six months without food. "It does not attack humans. It's a 'darvish' [a harmless being]," commented SWD's provincial head, Javed Ahmed Mahar. "It has gained an undeserved reputation due to its unattractive appearance, but it is not as dangerous as people believe." "It is not an active hunter and prefers stagnant waters, such as backwaters, rather than flowing rivers," he added. Crocodiles are considered scavengers and are often seen basking near water bodies. "There is no demand for crocodile meat in Pakistan," Mahar said in response to a question about whether its meat is sold in markets. "Most people lack accurate knowledge about wildlife and often spread unverified information." Under Section 21 of the Sindh Wildlife Protection, Preservation, Conservation, and Management Act 2020, crocodiles are a protected species. Many animals are considered 'associates' in the ecosystem, such as crocodiles and Indus blind dolphins. According to Mahar, crocodiles do not prey on these dolphins. "Dolphins inhabit flowing water, whereas crocodiles lack the energy to chase them," he explained.
Memri
12-02-2025
- Politics
- Memri
Baloch Leader Hyrbyair Marri Advocates For Baloch-Pashtun Unity: 'Baloch And Pashtun Have No Future In A Punjabi Colonial State – Pakistan'
On January 27, 2025, Hyrbyair Marri, prominent Baloch leader and president of the Free Balochistan Movement, spoke at the Pashtun National Council (Jirga) in London. In his speech, Marri advocated for Baloch-Pashtun unity to resist the oppressive rule of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan. "The event, organised by the Pashtun Tahafuz Movement (PTM), brought together leaders, activists, and intellectuals from the Baloch, Pashtun, and Sindhi nations, drawing attention to the shared struggles of these nations under the brutal occupation of Pakistan," reported the Baloch media outlet Balochwarna. Marri also called on the Baloch and Pashtun nations to reject the divisions created by the British-imposed Durand Line, which he described as a tool of imperialism meant to sow conflict between neighbouring nations. Marri supports the independence of Balochistan from Pakistan and Iran. He promotes a free and democratic Balochistan, in which men and women will be treated equally and will be entitled to all rights, protections, and freedoms in all spheres of society. (Source: Following is the text of Marri's speech: "United, No Power Can Stop The Baloch And Pashtun Nations" "Thank you for having me here. "I understand the sufferings of Baloch and Pashtun under the occupation of Pakistan are countless and unending, but I want to speak of our unity, shared struggles and a common bond between the Baloch and Pashtun nations as together, we have resisted imperial domination in the past, and together we shall defeat the colonial oppressors. (Source: Heaven Mail, daily newspaper from Kashmir, January 28, 2025) "The Baloch and Afghan nations stood for each other during difficult times and thwarted the evil intentions of their enemies. The Baloch nation's refusal to allow the British to attack Afghanistan through Bolan Pass resulted in multiple retaliation attacks on Balochistan in 1839: such as on Kalat fort, where Mir Mehrab Khan, along with his companions, embraced martyrdom, and at Sarthaaf where the British were intercepted before they could attack the capital of Marri tribe, Kahan. Here, the Baloch were victorious. They wiped out a whole regiment of the colonisers and left only a few survivors. "Let us revisit a moment in history that symbolizes the power of our unity. The treaty of Kalat, also known as the treaty of non-interference, was signed in 1758 between the Baloch and Afghan peoples. Under this treaty, both nations agreed NOT to interfere in each other's internal matters, strengthening the ties of brotherhood and solidarity. "Baloch leader Naseer Khan Noon stood shoulder to shoulder with Afghan ruler Ahmed Shah Abdali in several decisive battles against Iran and other imperial powers in the region. This treaty was not just a political alliance-, it was a testament to our shared values. Such as: "Loyalty – (to trust that we would not betray each other, in any circumstances). Respect – (to acknowledge each other as nations) Resistance – (to help one another against any oppressor) And freedom – (when all the above are fulfilled, real freedom will come). "In a true sense of following that treaty and after centuries of understanding, we now have all of those, except the last. We have to work together to achieve real freedom. It is time we renew this spirit of unity. United, no power can stop the Baloch and Pashtun nations from reclaiming their freedom. (Source: CIA) (Source: Brighter Kashmir, daily newspaper from Kashmir) "Pakistan's Oppressive Policies Are An Extension Of Colonial Domination" "Our histories are deeply intertwined. We share similar cultural systems, unique cultural identities and a fierce commitment to freedom. The British colonization of the 19th century subjected both our peoples to brutal oppression. Afghanistan became a buffer zone in the Great Game between the British and Russian Empire, while Balochistan endured repeated invasions from the British, because of its strategic importance. Both nations fought with valour, delivering heavy blows to imperial forces long before Britain achieved its geopolitical ambitions. "When the British finally left the region after World War II. they left behind a destructive legacy that continues to divide us. The Durand Line was drawn by the British to serve their imperial interests in the region, deliberately creating a flashpoint for conflict between Balochistan and Afghanistan. "After the independence of Balochistan from Iran and Pakistan, the Baloch nation firmly will commit itself to resolving these artificial divisions with its neighbouring and brotherly Pashtun nation. "Pakistan's oppressive policies are an extension of colonial domination. It wages war on Baloch and Pashtun nations alike, using enforced disappearances, torture and massacres to crush our quest for justice and freedom. The massacres of 1930 in Qissa Khwani Bazar AND Speen Thangai by the British, and in 1948 Barbra massacre by Pakistan, in Charsadda are tragic examples of state brutality that echo the British era's violence. (Source: Meri Dilli Meri Shaan, weekly newspaper from Delhi, India) "The Baloch and Pashtun have been used by other nations to protect their sovereignty and their borders. In the case of Pashtun: they are protecting the state of Pakistan and its borders. "The Punjabis consider the Pashtuns as mere guards and caretakers of the pirated land that is Pakistan. Meanwhile, they see themselves as the real owners and decision makers. "In 1948, the Pashtun tribes were the people who were sent to Kashmir to take over, while the Punjabis stood back and made the Pashtuns fight their war. "In the case of the Baloch, we have been helping half a dozen Arab nations in protecting their state and borders since their inception. Serving in their armed forces and police forces, and all those agencies that protect them. "In the war between Oman and Yemen in the 1960s, according to a Yemeni general, it wasn't Omani who won the war, it was the Baloch who won it for them. Although the Baloch have done so much for them, some of these Gulf states are repaying them by sending Baloch political activists to Pakistan, where they are never heard from again. Despite the Baloch repeatedly asking every nation not to invest in Balochistan while it is under Occupation, they are investing billions of dollars in Balochistan to appease the Punjabis. While being well aware that this will only intensify the Baloch genocide. "In the 1980s, in the Iran-Iraq war, thousands upon thousands of Baloch youth were forced to fight the Iraqis. The Iranians placed keys around all the soldiers' necks and told them that were they to die, those were the keys to open the gates of heaven. It's the height of absurdity. You don't need keys to open the gates of heaven, you need good deeds. "Let Us Renew Our Alliance" "The Afghan government are not taking Punjabi dictation, and this angers the Punjabi elites. So, to pressurise the Afghan Government, they have come up with a plan to deport millions of Afghan citizens, most of whom are Pashtuns. "We, the Baloch have been racially profiled since our lands were occupied and now, they are doing the same to Pashtun's. All the way from Karachi to Islamabad they are stopping them and checking their papers before bundling them up and sending them to the border. They see it as a pressure tactic. I see it as ruining millions of livelihoods. These people have been living there for generations This kind of treatment from the Punjabis is an affront to the Baloch and Pashtun. "History teaches that unity is the path to freedom. Just as Naseer Khan Noon and Ahmed Shah Abdali stood together against powerful enemies, we must stand united today The bond between the Baloch and Pashtun is not a threat. It is a promise of stabilisation of the region The occupying state fears our solidarity because it knows we are stronger together. "Let us reclaim the spirit of the treaty of Kalat. Let us renew our alliance and reject the divisions imposed by imperialism. We are not just Neighbours. We are brothers in struggle and destiny. "Baloch and Pashtun have no future in a Punjabi colonial state – Pakistan – which has leeched our lands and is sucking it dry. "Together, we will break the chains of occupation and build a future rooted in justice, sovereignty, and peace. "Our unity is a force of history, and our freedom is inevitable. "Long Live Baloch Pashtun Harmony." *Hyrbyair Marri, the head of the political platform called the Free Balochistan Movement. Follow Mr. Marri's activities on his X account, @hyrbyair_marri.
