The conflict in Balochistan is complex, with roots in historical grievances, ethnic tension, economic disparities, and political marginalization. It involves multiple actors, including the Pakistani government, Baloch nationalist parties, and militant groups. Key issues include demands for greater autonomy, control over natural resources, and allegations of human rights abuses by security forces. Efforts to resolve the conflict have been hindered by distrust, violence, and competing interests, making it a challenging issue to address.
The conflict often escalates before the elections to damage the electoral process in Balochistan. Several attacks have been carried out on political leaders in different areas of Balochistan. Most of the attacks have been carried out on the candidates of the Pakistan Peoples Party.
In an opinion piece, Nazir Ahmed Mir, says “Treating what is going in the province of Balochistan as a security matter only is a wrong approach”
He added, “Balochistan is the largest province of Pakistan, making up some 43.6 percent of the total area of the country. The province is rich in natural resources like gold, copper, oil, and natural gas and has a 770km (478-mile) stretch of coastline, where the strategic Gwadar port is located (an important part of the China-Pakistan economic corridor)”.
Despite being rich in natural resources, Baluchistan remains the poorest province in Pakistan. The Baloch ethnic group has been marginalized due to the Pakistani government`s discriminatory policies. This history of marginalization has been accompanied by sustained armed resistance.
The resolution of the conflict in Baluchistan requires a multifaceted approach, including:
- Dialogue: The state should engage in sincere dialogue with Baloch separatist groups to address their grievances and find mutually acceptable solutions.
- Development: Invest in infrastructure, education, healthcare, and economic development in Balochistan to address the region’s socio-economic disparities and alleviate grievances.
- Human Rights: Ensure respect for human rights, including ending enforced disappearances and extrajudicial killings, and holding the perpetrators accountable.
- Political Inclusion: Promote political inclusion by empowering local Baloch representatives and addressing concerns about marginalization and disenfranchisement.
- Resource Sharing: Ensure, ensure equitable distribution of resources and revenue generated from Balochistan’s natural wealth, such as gas and minerals, to benefit the local population.
- Security Sector Reform: Implement reforms within security forces to address allegations of abuse and regain trust among the Baloch population.
- International Engagement: Seek support from the international community, including neighboring countries and relevant organizations, to facilitate peaceful resolution and provide assistance in implementing development programs.
The issues of Balochistan can be resolved politically by stopping the election rigging and allowing the elected representatives of the people to come forward.
Baloch Yakhjehti committee carried a peaceful march from Turbat to Islamabad, seeking justice for the extrajudicial killing of Balach Mula Bakhsh. Balach was arrested by CTD from his home. Presented to the court, the court sentenced him to 14 days remand but was killed in an alleged fake encounter. The movement continued for 61 days but they returned disappointed.
That’s why more than half of the population is not concerned about elections. Because they have been given the wrong message.