BNP Condemns Attack on Cultural Monuments in Balochistan, Calls It an Assault on Baloch National Identity

Quetta:Balochistan National Party (BNP) Central Executive Committee member and District President, Ghulam Nabi Mari, has strongly condemned the destruction and damage of historical and cultural monuments dedicated to national heroes in various cities of Balochistan, including the burning of the Kalat Miri Monument on the National Highway. He described this act as a continuation of terrorism, aimed at attacking Baloch national identity and “killing” history.

In a statement, Mari pointed out that similar attacks had occurred previously, including the attempted damage to the statue of national poet, writer, and intellectual Syed Zahoor Shah Hashmi in Gwadar, and the removal of the statue of Nawab Akbar Khan Bugti in the main market square of Panjgur. He further recalled the destruction of the statue of Mir Yusuf Aziz Magsi, a prominent leader of the Baloch national movement, at the Governor House Chowk in Quetta, and the demolition of the historical monument of Mehrgarh at Imdad Chowk.

Mari emphasized that these monuments are not just physical structures, but reflections of the culture, history, and identity of the Baloch people. “They remind us of significant historical events, figures, and our cultural heritage, which represent our nation and culture. Preserving these monuments helps us understand our past and traditions, and they serve as an essential tool for education and research,” he said.

He added that these monuments also have significant tourism value, telling the stories of the sacrifices and achievements of the Baloch people. “They teach loyalty to the nation and unity, and highlight the aesthetic values of our culture, which inspire future generations to protect and preserve their heritage,” Mari said.

The BNP leader condemned the acts as an attempt to erase Baloch culture, identity, and civilization, referring to it as a continuation of colonial efforts to distort the very existence of the Baloch people. “These acts of violence against our history and identity are unacceptable,” he stated.

Mari urged Baloch intellectuals, writers, journalists, and serious political factions to take strong notice of this unjust act and pressure the government to stop these conspiracies. He called for a collective effort to protect and preserve the cultural and historical monuments of Balochistan, emphasizing that they must not be destroyed but carefully protected for future generations.