Exiled Baloch leader, the Khan of Kalat AAS Daud on Friday said dissident groups were considering forming a government in exile for the Balochistan region, ANI reported. In an interview to the news agency, Daud said the groups will take a decision on the matter after consulting with “the Baloch people”. He said, “There are no differences among the Baloch people. It is a big nation and we will consult with all stakeholders.”

Meanwhile, European Parliament Vice President Ryszard Czarnecki said the European Union may impose economic and political sanctions on Pakistan if it does not stop human rights violations in Balochistan. Accusing Islamabad of having “two faces”, Czarnecki said all 28 members of the EU needed to act against the country’s policies towards the people of the region. The official made his remarks while attending a silent vigil held by Baloch activists to condemn Pakistan for its alleged abuses in Balochistan.

The Balochistan issue has heated up over the few months. In August, Pakistan dedicated its Independence Day to the “freedom of Kashmir”, following which Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi brought up alleged human rights abuses in the disputed Balochistan region during his own Independence Day remarks. Baloch leader Brahamdagh Bugti on Monday applied for asylum in India, but Pakistan has said New Delhi will become an “official sponsor of terrorism” if it grants his request.