Balochistan, the largest province of Pakistan by area, holds immense geopolitical significance and is blessed with vast mineral resources. Despite these advantages, the province has been mired in terrorism and other complex challenges for a prolonged period. Rather than engaging all stakeholders in meaningful dialogue to address these issues, the state’s unilateral actions to impose its writ have exacerbated the situation. The growing frustration, particularly among the province’s youth, has fostered an atmosphere of alienation, posing a significant threat to national security and worsening the law-and-order situation in the region. The diminishing trust in the federation among the people of Balochistan signals grave concerns for the overall stability of the country.
The time has come to focus on mutual trust and foster social engagement with Balochistan’s people and influential groups to address the pervasive sense of deprivation. It is imperative to acknowledge that the first right to Balochistan’s resources belongs to its people. Addressing their grievances and working towards long-term peace requires an approach built on trust and collaboration. The following recommendations present essential measures for the restoration of peace and resolution of long-standing issues in the region.
Firstly, it is crucial to reinforce the belief among the people, particularly in Balochistan, that adherence to the Constitution and the rule of law is a shared responsibility of both the state and its institutions. Transparency and impartiality in enforcing justice must be ensured. The ownership rights of Balochistan’s resources should be formally recognized, affirming the province’s stake in its economic wealth.
It is undeniable that external forces have long exploited Balochistan by fostering terrorism, with the arrest of Kulbhushan Jadhav serving as a glaring example of such interference. To counter this external meddling and the ensuing violence, the unity of the state, its institutions, and the people is essential. Only through a concerted effort can the scourge of terrorism be effectively uprooted.
The China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) is widely regarded as a game-changer, benefiting three of Pakistan’s provinces with extensive motorways and public infrastructure projects such as the Orange Line. However, despite being the centerpiece of this monumental project, Balochistan, and its pivotal city, Gwadar, have yet to see the development of even a single kilometer of motorway. Furthermore, there is an absence of significant public welfare projects in the province. Addressing these shortcomings without delay will not only boost the confidence of the people in the federation but also ensure that CPEC delivers on its promises for all provinces. The policy regarding Balochistan and the former Federally Administered Tribal Areas (FATA) must be fair and yield tangible results.
An alarming rise in targeted killings, particularly under the guise of nationalist and regional sentiments, has been witnessed in various parts of Balochistan. The recent tragedy in Musa Khel is a grim reminder of the violence plaguing the province. Such incidents are not only detrimental to national security but also pose new dangers for nationalist movements and Baloch youth. The devastating events of August 26, 2024, must be handled with caution, employing prudent measures to steer the situation towards a positive direction.
The long-standing presence of Afghan refugees and the unwarranted leniency afforded to business communities in Balochistan necessitate a reevaluation of outdated policies. Instead of relying on hasty and corrupt systems, decisions must be grounded in wisdom and driven by genuine national interests. Superficial measures will do little to restore the trust of the people of Balochistan. Solutions should be found through the traditional tribal systems of the Baloch and Pashtun communities, utilizing the Jirga mechanism for a phased resolution of issues.
For decades, Balochistan’s democratic leadership has faced aggressive policies rooted in misunderstandings, particularly under military regimes and personal dictatorships. The assassination of Nawab Akbar Bugti, a patriotic and pro-democratic leader, during Pervez Musharraf’s tenure, only fueled the fires of unrest. The practice of rigging elections to install favored politicians must come to an end. The people of Balochistan, like the rest of the country, must be allowed to elect their leaders freely, and the resulting public mandate must be respected. To restore trust, all centers of power must be acknowledged, and the influence of both the local and national elite should be curtailed.
The people of Balochistan are known for their patriotism and deeply rooted values of dignity and honor. Their respect and the trust of the Pashtuns must be restored. The intellectuals, political leadership, and youth of Balochistan, full of potential and determination, should be involved in finding sustainable solutions to the province’s challenges.
The road to peace and stability in Balochistan lies not in force but in building trust, fostering dialogue, and empowering its people to take charge of their destiny. It is only through genuine reconciliation, addressing grievances, and promoting inclusive development that the province can thrive as an integral part of Pakistan.
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