On May 28, 1998, Pakistan conducted nuclear tests in Balochistan. To mark this day, the Baloch National Movement (BNM) held a rally in Göttingen, Germany, protesting against those nuclear explosions. A street theatre titled “When Mountains Wept” was also performed to highlight the consequences and damages caused by the nuclear experiments.
In their speeches, the speakers said that Pakistan’s nuclear tests were not for defense but acts of violence against a subjugated nation. As a result, the people of Chaghi faced radiation, illness, and displacement. That day, a fertile area of Chaghi was turned into nuclear waste without the consent of the people of Balochistan.
They added that even today, the people of Chaghi breathe toxic air and drink contaminated water. The region has become a hub for cancer and genetically transmitted diseases. While Pakistan claims Chaghi is barren, over 269,000 people live there with homes, fields, and dreams. The nuclear explosions shattered not just the mountains but also countless lives.
The speakers declared May 28 as a “Black Day” a day when Pakistan devalued Baloch lives and planted bombs in our existence and then celebrated, while our nation suffered in silence.
During the BNM demonstration in Germany, it was emphasized that Pakistan chose an already impoverished and oppressed region for its nuclear experiments. There were no safety measures, no evacuations, and no remorse. Even today, the people of Chagai are suffering from this radioactive legacy.
The speakers urged the international community to investigate Pakistan’s criminal negligence during the nuclear tests and to take action against Pakistan’s nuclear arsenal due to its environmental and radioactive consequences.
Speakers at the event included:
- Shahrahson Baloch, President of BNM Germany Chapter
- Safia Baloch, Vice President
- Shali Baloch, Joint Secretary
- BNM members Asif Baloch, Faisal Khalid, Akbar Baloch, and Shali Zakir
