India criticized Pakistan for making unfounded accusations against New Delhi regarding the attacks in Balochistan, calling it a tactic to divert attention from its internal issues. The Ministry of External Affairs urged Pakistan to stop repeating frivolous claims and focus on addressing the grievances of the people in the region.
Responding to Pakistan’s comments, the MEA rejected the allegations, emphasizing that Pakistan’s actions were aimed at deflecting attention from its own shortcomings. The MEA suggested that instead of making baseless claims after violent incidents, Pakistan should concentrate on meeting the long-standing demands of its populace.
Pakistan’s Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi had accused India of involvement in the recent attacks in Balochistan. The region has seen a rise in militant activities, especially in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan, following the termination of a ceasefire between Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and the government in November 2022.
The Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) claimed responsibility for a series of coordinated attacks in Balochistan, alleging the deaths of over 80 individuals, including security personnel. The BLA referred to the offensive as ‘Operation Herof Phase II’ and targeted key security, military, and administrative installations across multiple districts.
The BLA spokesperson stated that the attacks lasted nearly ten hours and were carried out in various districts of Balochistan. The group alleged that they killed 84 security forces members, injured many others, and captured 18 security personnel during the assaults. Additionally, the BLA claimed to have seized or destroyed over 30 government properties, including offices, banks, and prisons.
Balochistan has faced severe human rights violations, including enforced disappearances and extrajudicial killings by Pakistani authorities. The region continues to suffer from atrocities perpetrated by death squads supported by the government.
