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News18
24-05-2025
- Politics
- News18
Baloch Leader Urges PM Modi To Support 'Free Balochistan Movement', Lauds Indus Treaty Suspension
Last Updated: The Baloch leader condemned Pakistan for decades of atrocities against the Baloch people, including enforced disappearances, torture, and genocide. Tara Chand, President of the Baloch American Congress, urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday to provide substantial support to the 'Free Balochistan Movement'. In a strongly worded letter made public, Chand condemned Pakistan for decades of atrocities against the Baloch people, including enforced disappearances, torture, and genocide. In a post on X, Chand wrote: 'I have written a letter to Prime Minister Modi… Urging @narendramodi to lend meaningful support for a free #Balochistan! The Baloch people face oppression and genocide under Pakistan's regime. A free Balochistan would be a blessing for peace-loving India. Stand with us for justice!" He also attached the letter with his post. I have written a letter to Prime Minister Modi which is attached in the tweet. 📢 Urging @narendramodi to lend meaningful support for a free #Balochistan! The Baloch people face oppression and genocide under Pakistan's regime. A free Balochistan would be a blessing for… — Dr. Tara Chand (@drtchand) May 23, 2025 This appeal was conveyed through two formal letters sent on behalf of the Baloch American Congress, directly addressed to the Prime Minister's Office in Delhi. In his communication, Chand expresses appreciation for the Indian leadership's prior attention to the Balochistan issue, particularly noting PM Modi's remarks during his Red Fort speech, which he sees as a demonstration of moral support that inspired hope among the oppressed Baloch population globally. He asserted that the Baloch people have suffered genocidal-like acts committed by a "jihadist army" supported by Pakistan's dominant military establishment at Rawalpindi GHQ. "Governed by a jihadist army, this poorly conceived country is accountable for the disappearances, torture, deaths, and displacement of thousands of my countrymen," the letter claims. He stressed that these actions are part of a larger campaign to suppress the Baloch national liberation movement, which has been ongoing for several decades. He also pointed out that China's involvement in Balochistan as a colonial force presents an additional geopolitical danger. Tara Chand expressed disappointment that the Baloch national liberation movement has not gained international visibility, noting, "Outside of the Indian media, there is scant acknowledgement of the atrocities committed by the Pakistani state in Occupied Balochistan." He urged India to assume a leading role on the global stage in raising awareness about this situation. "Without substantial moral and political backing from the state level, Pakistan and its allies could extinguish the national resistance of the Baloch people, ushering in a new, more ominous phase of colonialism in Balochistan," the letter indicates. The document highlighted that Balochistan's abundant natural resources and strategic coastal position are crucial for regional stability. Baloch Leader On Indus Treaty Chand also commended Prime Minister Modi's decision to suspend the Indus Waters Treaty, characterising it as a courageous move that conveys a powerful message to Pakistan. "I commend your astute decision to place the Indus Waters Treaty on hold and to clarify to the jihadist generals of Pakistan that blood and water cannot coexist," the letter quotes. He stressed that the Baloch people hold high hopes for India's leadership and are looking towards the Indian government with optimism. The Baloch American Congress (BAC) is a registered political entity that aims to advocate for the Baloch national struggle for the right to self-determination and to defend the socio-cultural and political rights of the Baloch Diaspora in the United States. First Published:
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Business Standard
14-05-2025
- Politics
- Business Standard
Cong seeks 10 marla plots, ₹5 lakh each for relocating J&K border residents
Former deputy CM Chand also batted for immediate grant of relief to the residents of border villages who have been directly affected by heavy cross-border shelling and continuous drone strikes Press Trust of India Jammu Jammu and Kashmir Pradesh Congress Committee (JKPCC) working president Tara Chand on Tuesday demanded 10 marla plots and Rs 5 lakh for each family residing in border areas for their settlement at safer places in Jammu and Kashmir. The former deputy chief minister also batted for immediate grant of relief to the residents of border villages who have been directly affected by heavy cross-border shelling and continuous drone strikes. "We demand that 10 marla plots and Rs 5 lakh be granted in favour of families living along the border, which comes within the firing range of Pakistan. This will facilitate their rehabilitation at safer places along the border," he told reporters. Chand said most of the forward areas are vacant and people are facing miseries in these camps due to non-availability of ration and relief. The Congress leader said the government distributed a few items to these families in a pick-and-choose manner. "We urge the Centre as well as J&K government to provide immediate financial assistance to border landowners, who have lost their crops due to tension on the borders. Even their domestic animals have either died or crossed over to Pakistan," he added. Chand, accompanied by senior Congress leaders, visited border migrant camps and villages in forward areas along India-Pakistan border in Jammu. He expressed grief over the tragic loss of innocent lives and the injuries sustained by many in the shelling incidents. Chand, a three-time representative of the border constituency of Chaamb, recalled the time of the former UPA regime and said that "our government remained on its toes even during minor shelling on the border". "Special packages were sanctioned then in favour of border area residents," he added. Chand also cautioned residents to remain alert in future, stating that Pakistan is not a trustworthy neighbour. He urged the government that India should not compromise on its sovereignty and territorial integrity. The Congress leader also demanded that community bunkers be immediately constructed in these villages so that residents can save their lives during times of tension on the borders. (Only the headline and picture of this report may have been reworked by the Business Standard staff; the rest of the content is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
The Print
13-05-2025
- Politics
- The Print
Cong demands 10 marla plots, Rs 5 lakh each for border areas residents for settlement at safer places in J&K
'We demand that 10 marla plots and Rs 5 lakh be granted in favour of families living along the border, which comes within the firing range of Pakistan. This will facilitate their rehabilitation at safer places along the border,' he told reporters. The former deputy chief minister also batted for immediate grant of relief to the residents of border villages who have been directly affected by heavy cross-border shelling and continuous drone strikes. Jammu, May 13 (PTI) Jammu and Kashmir Pradesh Congress Committee (JKPCC) working president Tara Chand on Tuesday demanded 10 marla plots and Rs 5 lakh for each family residing in border areas for their settlement at safer places in Jammu and Kashmir. Chand said most of the forward areas are vacant and people are facing miseries in these camps due to non-availability of ration and relief. The Congress leader said the government distributed a few items to these families in a pick-and-choose manner. 'We urge the Centre as well as J&K government to provide immediate financial assistance to border landowners, who have lost their crops due to tension on the borders. Even their domestic animals have either died or crossed over to Pakistan,' he added. Chand, accompanied by senior Congress leaders, visited border migrant camps and villages in forward areas along India-Pakistan border in Jammu. He expressed grief over the tragic loss of innocent lives and the injuries sustained by many in the shelling incidents. Chand, a three-time representative of the border constituency of Chaamb, recalled the time of the former UPA regime and said that 'our government remained on its toes even during minor shelling on the border'. 'Special packages were sanctioned then in favour of border area residents,' he added. Chand also cautioned residents to remain alert in future, stating that Pakistan is not a trustworthy neighbour. He urged the government that India should not compromise on its sovereignty and territorial integrity. The Congress leader also demanded that community bunkers be immediately constructed in these villages so that residents can save their lives during times of tension on the borders. PTI AB AS AS This report is auto-generated from PTI news service. ThePrint holds no responsibility for its content.
NDTV
10-05-2025
- Politics
- NDTV
Who Was Raj Kumar Thapa, J&K Official Killed After Pak Shell Hit His House
Jammu: Jammu and Kashmir Administrative Service (JKAS) officer Raj Kumar Thapa, who lost his life in Pakistani shelling early Saturday, was known for his unwavering professional devotion and people-friendly approach, leaving many in the union territory mourning. Mr Thapa, 54, was widely respected for his unwavering professional devotion and approachable nature, a quality that deeply resonated with the people he served. An MBBS graduate, he joined JKAS in 2001. Mr Thapa lost his life when a Pakistani artillery shell struck his residential quarters in the bordering district of Rajouri. He is survived by his wife, a doctor, and their two children. The officer was posted as the Additional District Development Commissioner, Rajouri, in March last year and played a key role in handling the situation at Badhaal village where 17 members of three families, including 13 children, died under mysterious circumstances after falling sick between December 7 and January 19. Before his tenure in Rajouri, Mr Thapa served as an officer on special duty (OSD) to former deputy chief minister Tara Chand from 2009 to 2014, besides holding significant roles, including mission director of the J-K Skill Development Mission and special secretary in the Labour and Employment Department. Chief Minister Omar Abdullah visited the bereaved family at Roopnagar and was seen hugging his father, Durga Dass, to condole his son's death. "Paid my heartfelt condolences to the family of Dr Raj Kumar Mr Thapa, JKAS, ADDC Rajouri, who lost his life in the line of duty today due to shelling by Pakistan. His service and sacrifice will never be forgotten. The government stands firmly with his family in this hour of grief," Mr Abdullah said in a post on X. Earlier, the chief minister broke the news about the death of the officer and said, "Devastating news from Rajouri. We have lost a dedicated officer of the J-K Administration Services. Just yesterday he was accompanying the Deputy CM (Surinder Choudhary) around the district and attended the online meeting I chaired." "Today the residence of the officer was hit by Pak shelling as they targeted Rajouri town, killing our Additional District Development Commissioner Sh Raj Kumar Thapa. I've no words to express my shock and sadness at this terrible loss of life. May his soul rest in peace," Mr Abdullah said in an emotional post. Tributes also poured in from various leaders, including Tara Chand, who hailed Mr Thapa as a "people's officer". "He was a highly-dedicated and competent officer, whose behaviour with the general public was matchless. He was working like a social worker, always ready to help the needy," the former deputy chief minister told PTI before leaving for Mr Thapa's house to express his condolences to the family. Rajouri Deputy Commissioner Abhishek Sharma praised Mr Thapa's exemplary dedication during the Badhaal incident, declaring him "a true hero in service". Other prominent figures, including Peoples Conference Chairman Sajad Gani Lone and CPI(M) leader M Y Tarigami, too, extended their condolences to Mr Thapa's family. Jawaid Iqbal, Vice-Chancellor of Baba Ghulam Shah Badshah University, praised on Mr Thapa's dedication and selfless service, saying, "His sacrifice will always be remembered with the highest regard and deepest respect." "An insightful mind, a gifted writer, and a remarkable administrator," Jehanzeb Allaqaband, social media user, said, terming the loss as "heartbreaking".
India Gazette
09-05-2025
- Politics
- India Gazette
BAC's Tara Chand backs Indian strikes, calls for support to free Balochistan from Pakistan
Washington DC [US], May 9 (ANI): The President of the Baloch American Congress (BAC), Tara Chand, expressed support for India's Operation Sindoor against terrorism in Pakistan. However, he emphasised that Pakistan's harbouring of terrorists remains a significant issue. In a statement addressed to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Chand said, 'Dear Prime Minister Modi Ji, I want to express my support for the recent actions taken against terrorism by entering Pakistan. However, it is important to acknowledge that Pakistan has harboured many such terrorists.' Chand highlighted the situation in Balochistan and affirmed, 'Until the situation in Balochistan, which is crucial to Pakistan's stability, is addressed, Pakistan will continue to pose challenges for India. It is time to consider a strategic approach to the freedom of Balochistan, similar to how Gandhi played a pivotal role in the separation of Bangladesh from Pakistan. Currently, the people of Balochistan stand in solidarity with the people of India.' Earlier, Tara Chand highlighted that the Baloch people are resilient and determined, suggesting that any attempts to control or exploit their land will face significant opposition. He suggested that India consider a strategic approach to support Balochistan's freedom. In recent months, Balochistan has witnessed a significant escalation in human rights abuses attributed to Pakistani security forces. According to a January 2025 report by Paank, the human rights wing of the Baloch National Movement, there were 107 enforced disappearances across 14 districts, with Kech district reporting the highest number at 30 cases. Additionally, the report documented eight extrajudicial killings during the same period. In the previous year, Paank reported 22 enforced disappearances and five extrajudicial killings, with Kech and Gwadar districts being the most affected. (ANI)
