The situation in Balochistan is of utmost concern, with longstanding grievances and conflicts exacerbating the suffering of its people whether Balouch, Pukhuns Hazara or other settlers. My own half family settled in Balochistan after being displaced from Afghanistan during their centuries old struggle for freedom.
I have a personal connection with Honourable Aslam Bothani, formerly an Assistant Director of FIA deployed at Karachi immigration, and later a Sardar of his tribe who reluctantly joined national politics and served as Speaker of the Balouchistan Assembly . Today, he must be disheartened witnessing the bloodshed wherein Baloch are inflicting harm on their fellow Baloch, while the state seemingly turns a blind eye. Recent events have led to the suspension of traffic on the Khuzdar-Karachi Highway for two consecutive days, highlighting the severity of the situation.
My former organisation Dawn reports that one of the parties involved in the conflict is Shafiq Mengal, whose father was a former federal minister. Shafiq has been allegedly associated with the formation of Difa-e-Balochistan, an outfit accused of perpetrating violence against Baloch nationalist workers, and has also been linked to banned outfits involved in sectarian killings, particularly against Hazara Shias. However, Shafiq has denied these allegations in the past.
Amidst this turmoil, Akhtar Mengal heading the other warring party , in a meeting with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif in Islamabad, demanded stern action against the terrorist groups operating in Khuzdar. Such calls for action are crucial, but they must be accompanied by a comprehensive strategy that emphasizes political dialogue and reconciliation.
The notion of using a “thief to catch a thief” strategy employed allegedly by the establishment to restore peace is a risky endeavor. It is essential to understand that Balochistan has been bleeding for decades, and the wounds can only be healed through meaningful dialogue, addressing the legitimate political grievances of the Baloch people.
The historical dismemberment of East Pakistan serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of political indifference. The absence of timely political solutions contributed to the tragic separation of East Pakistan, and it is vital not to repeat the same mistakes in Balochistan.
Instead of indifference, the entire Pakistani nation, along with its institutions, must empathize with the pain and suffering of the Baloch people. Balochistan’s vast natural gas resources should be a source of prosperity for its people, not a reason for conflict. The establishment should prioritize dialogue and reconciliation over military measures, as only a politically stitched solution can prevent further divisions in the future.
The situation in Balochistan demands urgent attention and action. It is imperative for all stakeholders to engage in sincere dialogue and reconciliation efforts to address the grievances of the Baloch people and pave the way for lasting peace and prosperity in the region. The healing process may be challenging, but embracing the path of dialogue and understanding will be the first step towards a united, harmonious Pakistan. Long Live Pakistan Destroyed By Pakistanis 🇵🇰
