In the political arena, nationalism has become one of the most important drivers of changing politics over the last two centuries. This can be observed primarily in terms of the politicization of human identities and how it is continuously shaping and reshaping the modern world. This holds relevance in the Baloch nationalist movement. Balochistan has a long history of conflicts and insurgency dating back to its accession to Pakistan on March 1948. The ongoing third wave that started after the death of Baloch nationalist leader Nawab Akbar Bugti is considered to be the deadliest one.
Recently, Balochistan – on the death anniversary of Nawab Akbar Bugti – witnessed a series of coordinated terrorist attacks carried out by a banned organization BLA, in which more than seventy-four people lost their lives, including military personnel and civilians. These attacks under the operation named Herof were carried out at six main points. The most important aspect of this attack was the involvement of a woman suicide bomber. This notion underscores the new trend of militancy and the changing trajectory of Pakistan’s Baloch insurgency.
The Balochistan issue is multi-layered and multi-faceted. One of the primary concerns of Baloch people is the case of human rights violations and cases of missing persons. Last month, Balochistan witnessed a large it in Gwadar and Quetta. Secondly, Balochistan is the largest province, comprising 43.6 percent of the country’s area, but a scattered population is a challenge to govern effectively. As a result, the rule and order situation is not up to mark.
The existing Sardari system impedes this development process, because of lowering the Human Development Index. For example, the province does not have adequate educational and health resources. The literacy rate is about 41 percent, the lowest in the country. Similarly, it lacks operational health facilities. Another fueling factor is the unequal distribution of its natural resources. Despite the seventh NFC award, the locals are unable to hold their resources for their betterment. Likewise, Gwadar is an important part of China’s BRI project and has to be considered a port of regional connectivity, but the residents of Gwadar are protesting for their rights as being excluded from the benefits of Gwadar’s port. These hues and cries are being exploited by the hand of militants and narratives who manipulate the young people’s blood and then use it against the state.
The external involvement in these attacks cannot be ignored. As per sources, last month, international transactions to Balochistan were in the millions. Reportedly, India provides financial and logistics support to these terrorist organizations. The arrest of Kulbhushan Sudhir Jadhav, a serving naval officer, clearly shows the RAW’s involvement in this region. Since the Taliban Government in Kabul, TTP has established its writ in the north-west provinces and formed alliances with these other organizations. Intelligence reports show American leftover weapons are being used by BLA and BLF organizations.
This conflicted province implies the restitution of peace but on holistic approach and patterns. To begin with, the state should realize that Baloch grievances are very real and have a long historical orientation. So, the state should listen to the Baloch leaders and nationalists. In this manner, the phenomenon of ‘General Amnesty’ should be adopted to persuade insurgents to abandon violence and become productive citizens of society. Furthermore, the state has always dealt Bloch issue with an iron hand, which has only exacerbated tensions and accelerated conflicts. To achieve genuine peace, the state must recognize and apologize for past injustices and acknowledge the missing person issue on a priority basis.
The efforts to address Balochistan’s economic disparities must be intensified. Development schemes should be introduced covering the basic needs like infrastructure, healthcare and education to uplift the locals. Additionally, the NFC award should be restored in true letter and spirit.Lastly, the state should engage the Baloch representatives in the police-making process and give them autonomous representation to address their issues on their own terms.
In conclusion, a peaceful Pakistan requires a Peaceful Balochistan and that requires the joint efforts of all the stakeholders to address the root cause of conflicts and establish peace. It’s the only way forward to bridge the gap between itself and affected Baloch people and for peaceful future of Balochistan.
To Keep Updated Visit & Follow our Facebook Page Or Our Website
