Pakistan’s Defence Minister Khawaja Asif has acknowledged the difficulties faced by security forces in Balochistan due to a recent increase in militant violence. He mentioned that the vast geographical area of Balochistan poses challenges for controlling the region, leading to constraints for the troops stationed there.
Asif highlighted the ongoing counterterrorism operations in Balochistan, where 197 Baloch individuals, including militants from various armed groups, have lost their lives in the past three days. He emphasized the physical limitations faced by the troops in patrolling such a large area, especially in the wake of coordinated attacks by separatist forces across multiple locations.
The Defence Minister ruled out negotiations with the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA), the group claiming responsibility for the attacks. He cited the nexus between criminal elements and separatist groups, accusing them of engaging in illegal activities like smuggling. Asif also addressed the rising human rights violations in Balochistan, including enforced disappearances and extrajudicial killings, amidst the province’s struggle for autonomy.
Balochistan, a resource-rich province with a history of insurgency, continues to grapple with economic and political marginalization. The region’s separatist movements have targeted security forces and infrastructure, particularly projects associated with the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). Despite its wealth in natural resources, Balochistan remains one of Pakistan’s most underdeveloped areas, with disparities in resource distribution and inadequate public services.
