Quetta, July 26, 2024 — In a recent address to the Balochistan Assembly, Chief Minister Sarfaraz Bugti extended an invitation to the Baloch Yakjehti Committee (BYC) for negotiations, asserting that the governance of Balochistan cannot be ceded to any single group. His remarks come as the BYC, led by Mahrang Baloch, prepares for the Baloch Raaji Muchi, a major political gathering scheduled for this Sunday in Gwadar.
Bugti emphasized that while peaceful protest is a constitutional right, disruptive actions such as road blockades and violence against law enforcement will not be tolerated. “The entire system of Balochistan cannot be handed over to any group,” Bugti asserted, addressing lawmakers in the assembly.
The BYC has been vocal in its protests against alleged human rights abuses, including enforced disappearances and killings linked to security operations. Their upcoming event in Gwadar is expected to draw significant support from across the province.
Bugti identified law and order as a critical challenge, attributing the rising crime rate to a weakened state apparatus. He advocated for a temporary cessation of political interference in the police force, suggesting a six-month period where no political appointments would be made. Additionally, he reported that the perpetrators of recent high-profile murders, including those of Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam members and the Khuzdar Press Club president, have been apprehended and expressed hope for judicial proceedings.
Addressing the issue of terrorism, Bugti described a multi-faceted threat, including a purported intelligence war driven by external actors and organized social media campaigns aimed at inciting discord between civilians and the military. He accused certain separatist factions of responsibility for over 4,000 civilian deaths and called for a special legislative session to address these concerns.
Highlighting the role of the Pakistan Army, Bugti praised the approximately 28,000 Baloch soldiers serving in the military and criticized the manipulation of social and political movements by some groups. He assured that while the government would not take action against peaceful protesters, it would not tolerate actions that undermine public order.
The Chief Minister reiterated that the government’s operational control remains within the Red Zone, while protest activities are to be confined to designated areas such as Hockey Chowk.
As tensions remain high, Bugti’s offer for dialogue represents a critical opportunity for de-escalation and resolution of ongoing disputes in the region.
