Baloch activist in Delhi to form government-in-exile

Baloch writer Naela Qadri Baloch, a long-time campaigner for Balochistan's independence from Pakistan, arrived here on Tuesday with a view to set up a Baloch government-in-exile.

Naela Baloch, who waited for almost three months to get an Indian visa, flew into New Delhi from Kabul where she lives.

"I am very happy to be here. I look forward to my stay in Delhi for a week and then travel to other cities," Naela Baloch told IANS.

"I have multiple engagements in Delhi. I am looking forward to meet a number of political leaders here to garner support to form a Baloch government-in-exile," she added.

She was received at the Indira Gandhi International Airport by her son Mazdak Dilshad Baloch, who reached New Delhi in August, and several other Baloch activists.

Mazdak Baloch told IANS: "My mother will take part in several seminars and programmes on the Baloch movement. She will meet people in the government to seek support of our campaign."

Several Baloch leaders from Pakistan and from other countries have begun visiting New Delhi since Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in his Independence Day address of August 15, highlighted the Baloch issue.

Balochistan, Pakistan's largest province in terms of area, has witnessed a long-running insurgency for which Islamabad blames New Delhi.

--IANS

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