Due to Baluchistan’s critical importance to the country, adversaries and anti-state elements are actively engaged in nefarious activities within the province. India is implicated in supporting terrorist groups operating in Baluchistan, with the Baluchistan Liberation Army (BLA) standing out as a prominent insurgent organization. The BLA seeks increased autonomy for Baluchistan and is notorious for carrying out attacks against Pakistani security forces and infrastructure.
Rooted in political, economic, and cultural grievances, the BLA adds complexity to the region’s dynamics. Another significant separatist group, the Baluchistan Liberation Front (BLF), led by Dr. Allah Nazar Baloch, advocates for Baluchistan’s independence and has been involved in attacks against security forces, expressing resistance to perceived Baluch marginalization.
The Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), initially rooted in the tribal areas along the Afghanistan-Pakistan border, has extended its influence into Baluchistan, intensifying the security challenges faced by the province. Baluchistan’s strategic location, coupled with the presence of the Gwadar Port, has attracted external actors, with reports suggesting foreign involvement and support for certain terrorist groups, further complicating the geopolitical landscape. The Pakistani government has initiated various measures, including military operations, development projects, and political dialogues, to address these security challenges.
However, the involvement of multiple actors make finding a comprehensive solution a formidable task. Contrary to false propaganda, Pakistan is actively engaged in development activities in Baluchistan. The China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), a flagship project, has catalyzed development in the province, leading to significant infrastructure projects, such as road construction, energy facilities, and the development of the Gwadar Port. These initiatives aim to enhance connectivity, stimulate economic growth, and position Baluchistan as a key player in regional trade. The Gwadar Port, situated in Baluchistan, not only bolsters the local economy but also creates opportunities for trade and commerce, connecting landlocked Central Asian countries to international markets.
The Pakistan Army has played a noteworthy and diverse role in contributing to the development, security, and stability of Baluchistan. The province has grappled with security challenges from various fronts, including insurgent groups and separatist movements. The Pakistan Army has taken a leading role in efforts to maintain law and order, executing counterterrorism operations to suppress violence and stabilize the region. Their dedication to securing Baluchistan has been pivotal in fostering an environment conducive to development.
The army has actively participated in numerous infrastructure development projects across Baluchistan, ranging from the construction of roads and bridges to supporting energy projects like the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). Their involvement has played a key role in enhancing connectivity and stimulating economic growth. In times of natural disasters and humanitarian crises, the Pakistan Army has been swift in responding, providing relief during earthquakes, floods, and other emergencies, earning the trust and gratitude of many.
The military’s involvement extends to the strategic Gwadar Port, where security concerns are closely intertwined with economic development. Their efforts contribute to the success of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor, positioning Gwadar as a key hub for regional trade. The Pakistan Army’s remarkable role in Baluchistan spans beyond traditional security concerns, encompassing a wide range of development initiatives. From counterterrorism operations to infrastructure development and community engagement, their multifaceted contributions have been instrumental in guiding Baluchistan toward progress and stability.
As the province continues its developmental journey, the collaborative efforts between the Pakistan Army, the government, and local communities exemplify the collective commitment to a brighter and more prosperous future for Baluchistan.
Now come to the issue of missing persons in Baluchistan. Pakistan’s position on this matter reflects the delicate balance between ensuring national security and addressing the legitimate concerns of families and activists. The nation places a premium on national security, especially in regions prone to insurgent activities.
Baluchistan has witnessed instances of separatist movements and violence, prompting security forces to take action to maintain law and order. The government has taken steps to address the concerns raised by families of missing persons and human rights organizations. Special commissions and tribunals have been established to investigate cases and ensure a fair and transparent process. The government asserts its commitment to upholding human rights standards in dealing with these cases.
One challenge faced by the government is the complexity of investigating cases related to missing persons. Baluchistan’s vast and rugged terrain, coupled with the presence of various armed groups, makes conducting thorough and independent investigations challenging. The government contends that such challenges can hinder timely and conclusive resolutions.
Pakistan faces the delicate task of striking a balance between national security imperatives and safeguarding human rights. The government asserts that actions taken by security forces are in response to genuine threats to state stability and that measures are in place to prevent abuse of power and ensure accountability.
Acknowledging the need for greater transparency and accountability in addressing the issue of missing persons, efforts are being made to strengthen investigative processes, ensure due diligence in legal proceedings, and provide families with timely and accurate information about the status and whereabouts of their loved ones. Pakistan emphasizes the importance of dialogue as a means of addressing the root causes of discontent in Baluchistan.
The government recognizes that political, economic, and cultural grievances need to be addressed comprehensively to build trust and create an environment conducive to reconciliation. In Pakistan, when the government and law enforcement agencies take strong actions against terrorist elements, those who claim to advocate for human rights promptly voice their concerns.
Interestingly, these advocates often remain silent when other countries implement even more stringent measures against such elements within their borders. Our judicial justice system is widely acknowledged for its flaws and delays, with cases taking years to conclude and often resulting in the punishment of the innocent while the actual culprits go free. In such circumstances, whenever our agencies detain a suspicious person for investigation and evidence collection, accusations of forceful and unlawful arrests arise.
I firmly believe that our agencies do not apprehend innocent individuals without reason, and there is always substance behind these arrests. If someone is innocent and has not acted against the state or armed forces, there is no reason for anyone to apprehend them. There is always a story behind every missing person, and our religion emphasizes the love for our country, the nation that has granted us identity and freedom. This loyalty is particularly evident when we consider the struggles for freedom faced by the Palestinians and the people of Kashmir in Occupied Kashmir.
Notably, not all individuals reported as missing are under the jurisdiction of law enforcement agencies; some have affiliations with terrorist organizations and engage in conflict against the state. Individuals with ties to terrorism may go into hiding to evade arrest. Additionally, some people become missing due to personal vendettas, seeking refuge in remote areas to escape potential revenge from adversaries. Others may be connected to cross-border smuggling and various criminal activities, prompting them to remain in hiding. The classification of these individuals as missing persons can be intentional or unintentional, influenced by design or lack of awareness.
Therefore, it is the responsibility of every individual to recognize the significance of our freedom, an independent country, and a patriotic army. While it may be easy to immediately blame agencies for allegedly apprehending innocents, it is essential to remember that these arrests have led to the disclosure of many terrorists, anti-state elements, and foreign spies. Terrorists never admit their crimes themselves, and investigations are crucial to extracting information from them. National security is a non-negotiable aspect, and no country in the world compromises on this front.
The operation against terrorists and anti-state elements is not limited to Baluchistan only; it is carried out all over Pakistan. The actions are taken against only culprits who, in turn, raise their arms against the State and the Pak Army. These false accusations from these anti-state elements don’t represent the voice of the whole province.
Now, let’s come to the Baloch Unity Council’s protest in Islamabad. There’s an ongoing discussion and a requirement for an inquiry to determine whether their grievances regarding the disappearances of their loved ones are legitimate or if they are manipulating public sentiments to provide a protective shield for terrorists. Additionally, concerns have been raised about the protest leader, Dr. Mah Rang Baloch, and his familial connection to his father’s involvement with the BLA and attacks on state institutions. The question arises: in a scenario where everyone claims innocence, who is responsible for acts of terrorism, suicide attacks, and the targeting of civilians and military personnel? If these matters are to be decided through public gatherings, does this not render the role of courts, the state, and its legal authority obsolete? Seeking decisions based on personal choices through crowds seems rather absurd.
Readers, Baluchistan is an important part of Pakistan and is the heart of the country. Pakistan, the Pak Army, and the people of the country acknowledge the importance of this key province of the country. Baluch people also appreciate the steps of the State taken for their benefits. It is imperative to address the malicious intentions of anti-state elements decisively, employing strong measures, as these actions are intended to undermine the strength of Pakistan.
