The targeting of civilians based on ethnicity poses a significant threat to national unity. Balochistan is a vital part of Pakistan, and its security concerns directly impact the nation’s stability. The recent attacks highlight the urgent need for a comprehensive security strategy for Balochistan. Need a plan that does more than just talk. It should focus on practical actions to make Balochistan safer, solve the problems that are causing anger, and make everyone feel secure. The recent attacks highlight the urgent need for a comprehensive security strategy for Balochistan. A strategy that goes beyond mere pronouncements and focuses on actionable steps to secure the province, address underlying grievances that fuel separatist movements and violence, and foster a sense of security for all its citizens.

The recent attack on the Quetta Taftan highway near Noshki, Balochistan, has sent shocks across the nation. Nine Punjabi civilians were abducted from a bus, and mercilessly shot dead, and their bodies abandoned under a bridge. This barbaric act, alongside the separate attack on a car that attempted to bypass the gunmen’s blockade, underscores the precarious security situation in the province. The audacity of the attackers is frightening. They meticulously stopped a bus, checked passenger IDs, and targeted individuals based on ethnicity. This calculated brutality raises a multitude of questions about the effectiveness of security measures in Balochistan. The first and the foremost question was that, how were the attackers able to operate with such impunity? Blocking a major highway; conducting passenger checks, and carrying out executions all within a short distance of a town expose a significant security lapse. This incident demands a thorough investigation into patrolling schedules, intelligence gathering capabilities, and the overall security apparatus in the region. This is not an isolated incident. The targeted killings of Punjabi laborers in Turbat last year and the massacre of construction workers in 2015 paint a grim picture. These repeated attacks suggest a pattern of targeting civilians based on ethnicity, creating an environment of fear and instability.

Condemnation from authorities, while necessary, is insufficient. The rhetoric of bringing perpetrators to justice rings hollow without concrete action. What is urgently needed is a multi-pronged approach. Need to emphasis on increasing patrolling, particularly on major highways and remote areas, is crucial. Checkpoints need to be strategically placed and manned by vigilant personnel with clear protocols for identification checks. Security forces need a robust intelligence network to identify potential threats and disrupt attacks before they occur. This requires collaboration with local communities and fostering trust with citizens. Building bridges with local communities is vital. Locals can be a valuable source of information and can help identify suspicious activities. Fostering a sense of security and community involvement is essential for long-term success. While a strong security response is necessary, it cannot be the only solution. The underlying grievances that fuel extremism need to be addressed. This requires dialogue, development initiatives that benefit local communities and a commitment to social justice.

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