Anum Mushtaq

BALOCHISTAN confronts a plethora of complexities arising from the historical negligence of its people’s rights and the relentless pursuit of detrimental security-centric strategies. The intense conflict that erupted in Wadh, Khuzdar district, starting Wednesday – albeit currently under a precarious ceasefire – is a manifestation of this overarching issue.

At the surface level, it appears to be a feud triggered by notorious outlaw Shafiq Mengal’s men forcefully occupying land owned by tribal chief and BNP-M president Akhtar Mengal. Armed to the teeth, an extended confrontation could escalate the situation beyond control. In an effort to mediate, former chief minister Aslam Raisani has intervened.

However, as Akhtar Mengal straightforwardly expressed in a tweet, this crisis extends far beyond a specific region or tribe. It stems from the alarming impunity with which ‘death squads’ have been allowed to operate in Balochistan.

Indeed, a long-lasting resolution cannot be achieved if figures like Shafiq Mengal continue to be influential. He was once an instrument of the state’s response to the Baloch insurgency, empowering extremist groups and tribal militias, such as his Baloch Musalla Difa Tanzeem, to relentlessly pursue separatists.

It is vital to address the underlying issues that have nurtured such conflicts and hold accountable those who have perpetuated violence under the cloak of state authority. While the current ceasefire in Wadh may offer a temporary respite, the root causes of Balochistan’s strife demand more comprehensive attention.

Balochistan’s predicament has deep historical roots, marked by years of marginalization and exploitation. The region’s natural wealth, especially its vast reserves of minerals and natural gas, have paradoxically become a source of contention, leading to the exploitation of its resources without adequate benefit to its people. The lack of equitable resource-sharing mechanisms and sustainable development initiatives has fomented unrest and widened the chasm between the state and Balochistan’s inhabitants.

Moreover, Balochistan’s political landscape has been marred by a complex web of tribal rivalries, power struggles, and historical grievances. These dynamics intertwine with larger geopolitical interests, further complicating the efforts to achieve lasting peace and reconciliation.

To pave the way for meaningful progress, a multifaceted approach is necessary. It should encompass genuine dialogue with all stakeholders, including moderate separatist elements, to address their grievances and aspirations. Initiating socio-economic development projects that benefit the local communities and empowering them in decision-making processes is crucial in bridging the trust deficit.

The state must prioritize the rule of law and bring perpetrators of violence to justice, irrespective of their affiliations. This includes dismantling ‘death squads’ and holding accountable those who have operated with impunity in the past. Such measures are fundamental to restoring confidence in the state’s commitment to protecting the rights and welfare of Balochistan’s people.

Balochistan’s security needs must be re-examined, shifting the focus from a purely military approach to a more comprehensive strategy that prioritizes community engagement, development, and conflict resolution. Investing in education and vocational training can provide alternative paths for disillusioned youth and dissuade them from joining militant groups.

The central government should demonstrate its earnestness in addressing Balochistan’s grievances by ensuring fair representation and active participation of Baloch leaders in the decision-making processes. Building mutual trust and respect is essential to foster a sense of ownership and belonging among the people of Balochistan.

In conclusion, the conflict in Wadh is symptomatic of a larger issue that demands a holistic approach. Balochistan’s history of marginalization, unresolved grievances, and exploitative policies cannot be ignored any longer. Sustainable peace and development can only be achieved through genuine dialogue, inclusive governance, and equitable resource-sharing. The time to address Balochistan’s long-standing woes is now, and concerted efforts are required to usher in a new era of stability and prosperity for the province and its people.

In Balochistan, a region plagued by a lack of rule of law, myopic policies have given rise to vicious cycles of violence, allowing individuals like Shafiq Mengal and his gang to perpetrate heinous crimes, including murder, robbery, and kidnapping for ransom. The reign of terror in Khuzdar district remains a haunting memory, where journalists, teachers, and doctors fell victim to targeted killings, and locals, fearing reprisal, are reluctant to speak out.

Despite evidence linking Shafiq Mengal’s group to the mass graves of missing individuals discovered in Tootak, he continued to roam free, even participating as a candidate in the 2018 elections for the National Assembly seat from Khuzdar. This highlights how the political landscape has been engineered to deviate significantly from a true representative democracy, where even powerful figures like Akhtar Mengal, who secured the seat, must be reminded of the limits to their influence.

Amidst these political machinations lies the tragic plight endured by the people of Balochistan. Khuzdar district, among the most underdeveloped and traditional areas of the province, is deeply entrenched in tribal culture. Neocolonial policies of division and control have only exacerbated the preexisting problems faced by the region.

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Balochistan’s challenges extend beyond the surface-level conflicts; they have deep-rooted historical causes. The neglect of the people’s rights and the prioritization of security-centric policies have sowed the seeds of unrest and violence. Addressing these underlying issues is crucial to forging a sustainable path towards peace and prosperity.

The discovery of mass graves in Tootak shed light on the atrocities committed by Shafiq Mengal’s gang. The public outcry that followed finally led to some accountability. However, such incidents are symptomatic of a more profound malaise that plagues Balochistan.

True progress can only be achieved when there is genuine adherence to the rule of law. The state must dismantle ‘death squads’ and ensure all perpetrators of violence face justice, regardless of their affiliations. A fair and impartial judiciary is the cornerstone of a just society.

Moreover, the political landscape in Balochistan demands fundamental reform. Representative democracy must be upheld, allowing for meaningful participation of the people in governance. Empowering local leaders and ensuring their voices are heard is essential in addressing the grievances of the region.

Balochistan’s tribal culture, while rich in tradition, can also serve as a barrier to progress. Balancing respect for cultural heritage with the need for societal advancement is a delicate task. Education and awareness campaigns can play a pivotal role in fostering a progressive mindset while preserving valued customs.