Balochistan National Party (Awami) Urges for Protection of Balochi and Brahui Languages on International Mother Language Day
Quetta: In a statement released by the central spokesperson of the Balochistan National Party (Awami), Anwar Baloch, it was conveyed that the party’s central president, Nawabzada Mir Israrullah Khan Zehri, addressed the significance of International Mother Language Day. He emphasized that Balochi and Brahui languages are the foundation of the Baloch people’s identity, history, and culture. The promotion and protection of these languages is essential for national development and autonomy. However, unfortunately, these languages have been continuously neglected at the governmental level, with cuts being made in the funds allocated for their promotion, a practice that is deeply regrettable and condemnable.
He further stated that the Baloch people are not only victims of political, economic, and social oppression but their language, culture, and literary heritage are also being systematically sidelined. Balochi and Brahui languages carry thousands of years of history, along with a rich literary and cultural heritage. However, due to the insensitivity of the current rulers, these languages are facing grave risks. He pointed out that while developed nations are formulating effective policies to strengthen their languages, the situation in Balochistan is in stark contrast.
The statement added that the Balochistan National Party (Awami) has always been active in preserving the Baloch people’s language, culture, literature, and historical heritage, as well as their national resources and survival. The party demands that the government make Balochi and Brahui languages a compulsory part of the educational curriculum, increase the grants for linguistic and cultural academies, and fully encourage research institutions and writers focused on language and literature.
Furthermore, the statement highlighted that Balochistan is a multilingual region with various cultures, and the party supports the promotion of all local languages, including Pashto, Sindhi, Siraiki, Hazargi, Dehwari, Khetrani, Lasi, and others. It is believed that deliberately neglecting these languages is part of a deep-rooted conspiracy that will not be tolerated.
The statement concluded by urging the Baloch people to unite and take practical steps to protect their language, culture, and identity. The Balochistan National Party (Awami) also called for the formulation of a comprehensive national language policy, recognition of all regional languages of the federation, and immediate resolution of financial difficulties faced by educational and cultural institutions. If the government fails to take effective measures to preserve the Baloch languages and cultural heritage, it will result in irreparable damage, for which the responsibility will fall on both the federal and provincial governments.
