An Attack on Baloch Identity/ Akbar Shahnoue

The Baloch people in Iran, primarily residing in the province of Sistan and Baluchistan, face a new wave of political and cultural challenges as the Iranian regime proposes to divide the province into several parts. This move is seen as an attempt to further marginalize the Baloch population and eradicate their identity by eliminating the “Baloch” name from administrative regions.

Background of Sistan and Baluchistan

Sistan and Baluchistan, Iran’s second-largest province, is home to a significant Baloch population, estimated to be about 90% of the province’s inhabitants​ . The region has historically been marginalized, both economically and politically. Despite its rich natural resources, including oil, gas, and minerals, the province suffers from severe underdevelopment, high poverty rates, and low literacy levels​.

Proposed Division and Its Implications

The Iranian government’s proposal to divide Sistan and Baluchistan is viewed with suspicion and resistance by the Baloch community. Activists argue that this division is a strategic move to dilute Baloch political influence and disrupt their social cohesion. By renaming and reorganizing the regions, the government aims to weaken the Baloch identity and suppress their demand for greater autonomy and rights.

This plan also involves administrative changes that would see areas traditionally inhabited by Baloch people being governed by officials from other ethnic groups, particularly Persians. This is consistent with the regime’s broader policy of marginalizing ethnic minorities by excluding them from significant political positions and economic opportunities​.

Historical Context and Current Resistance

The historical context of the Baloch struggle is crucial in understanding the resistance to this plan. The Baloch people have a rich history of resistance against domination and have always valued their autonomy and cultural heritage. The proposed division is seen as a continuation of efforts to undermine their cultural and political existence.

The regime’s intentions to divide Sistan and Baluchistan are part of a broader strategy to control and suppress the Baloch population. By fragmenting the province, the government aims to weaken the Baloch community’s ability to organize and resist oppression. The Baloch have organized numerous protests and strikes to oppose this plan, demonstrating their resolve to protect their identity and rights.

Identity and Cultural Erasure

The proposed division threatens not just the political, but also the cultural and social fabric of the Baloch community. The erasure of the “Baloch” name from administrative regions is a direct attack on the identity of the Baloch people. This symbolic erasure aims to diminish the historical and cultural significance of the Baloch people within Iran.

The resistance to the proposed division is not just about administrative boundaries but about preserving the essence of Baloch history, language, and traditions.

Broader Context of Repression

The division proposal comes amid increased repression of the Baloch people. The Iranian regime has intensified its surveillance, harassment, and arrest of Baloch activists, both within Iran and abroad. The economic marginalization and political exclusion faced by the Baloch have only fueled their struggle for recognition and rights​.

The proposed division of Sistan and Baluchistan is seen by many as a deliberate attempt by the Iranian regime to erase the Baloch identity and weaken their political influence. This move is part of a broader pattern of marginalization and repression faced by the Baloch people. As they continue to resist these plans, the Baloch community calls for international support and recognition of their plight.

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