Society, State and Discrimination against Zigri Baloch

Abstract

This thesis examines the society, state and their discrimination against Zigri Baloch. The study aims to scrutinize the perceptions of non Zigris towards Zigri to unveil the stereotypical opinions regarding Zigri community. The study investigated about the nature and extent of discrimination against Zigri community and how state is reinforcing these discriminatory behaviors against them. How majoritarian sect: Sunni has compelled the Zigri into Nemazi and make them acceptable to majoritarian sect. The research also looks into the education sector, how Zigri has been ruthlessly excluded from the curriculum. Their religion has never been taught to them in schools. They are compelled to read and write Sunni’s rituals. Sunni Muslims have a rivalry behavior with Zigri Baloch and they do not participate in Zigri Baloch’s rituals as well they negate their rituals. They declared Zigri Baloch infidels. Radical Mullahs abuse Zigri Baloch on Friday sermons and provoke Sunnis to stand against Zigri. Similarly, state does the same with Zigri Baloch. State’s officials’ lambasted Zigri Baloch for practicing Zigrism. To them, it is a wrong path Zigri Baloch have adapted. State forces preach them to convert and choose the right path: means Sunnism. State also accused Zigri Baloch attacking the troops, which Zigri Baloch deny. In addition, this research used anthropological techniques and tools such as rapport building, participant observation, interview guide, and focus group for the collection of relevant data.