Written by: Abdan Safi
The recent attack on the Jaffar Express train in Balochistan once again draws global attention to the ongoing crisis in the region, underscoring the consequences of Pakistan’s flawed policies. This incident not only exemplifies the weakness of Pakistan’s security institutions but also serves as a message from the Baloch resistance—one that no amount of government propaganda can obscure. It is a stark reminder to those who continue to disregard the escalating crisis in Balochistan.
Longstanding Grievances in Balochistan
For decades, Balochistan has endured significant economic, political, and social hardships at the hands of the state. The following factors greatly contribute to the regional discontent:
1. Economic Exploitation: Despite being the most resource-rich province in Pakistan, Balochistan’s natural wealth is primarily exploited for the benefit of the central government and other provinces, leaving the local population deprived of essential services.
2. Enforced Disappearances: The persistent practice of enforced disappearances, targeting Baloch activists, students, and civilians, has garnered condemnation from international human rights organizations. This systematic repression has heightened the sense of injustice among the Baloch people.
3. Military Operations: Continuous military actions against the Baloch populace, including indiscriminate killings and severe bombings, have driven many in the region toward armed resistance. The persistent reliance on military force, rather than dialogue, has only fueled resentment and unrest.
4. Lack of Political Solutions: Rather than engaging in constructive dialogue with Baloch leaders, the government has consistently resorted to military measures, exacerbating the crisis.
Failure of Pakistan’s Security Institutions
Pakistan’s security agencies claim to be among the most formidable intelligence networks in the world. Yet, the persistence of such attacks raises a fundamental question: why do these attacks continue to occur with alarming regularity? The truth is that these institutions prioritize internal politics, power consolidation, and the suppression of dissent over the provision of genuine security. This recurring failure is evident in various historical events:
– In 1971, despite the presence of Pakistani forces, East Pakistan seceded, leading to the formation of Bangladesh.
– During the 1999 Kargil War, Pakistan suffered a strategic setback due to inadequate military planning.
– The attacks on vital military installations, such as the General Headquarters (GHQ), Jinnah International Airport, and Mehran Naval Base, highlight significant intelligence failures.
Each time such an attack occurs, Pakistani authorities hastily attribute it to “foreign hands.” Yet, the crucial question remains: who is accountable for preventing these external forces?
Once again, Pakistan’s state-controlled media attempts to link these attacks to neighboring nations. However, the reality is that this is an internal resistance movement stemming directly from the state’s flawed policies. Instead of making unfounded accusations, the government must focus on addressing the root causes of this crisis.
If Pakistan does not alter its approach, the crisis will only intensify. The attack on the Jaffar Express delivers a clear message: unless Pakistan responds positively to the demands of the Baloch people, the situation will continue to deteriorate. To achieve lasting peace, the government must adopt a new, comprehensive strategy:
1. Halt military operations in Balochistan.
2. End enforced disappearances and extrajudicial killings.
3. Initiate peace dialogues with Baloch leaders.
4. Ensure equal economic, political, and social rights for the people of Balochistan.
5. Uphold human rights in accordance with international standards.
The attack on the Jaffar Express may be just the beginning. If the government persists in ignoring the realities on the ground, such attacks are likely to escalate. This is a critical moment for reform, not for casting blame. If Pakistan fails to learn from its history, this continued failure will pose significant threats to its future stability.
While the Pakistani government frequently seeks to shift blame for its shortcomings, the crisis in Balochistan undeniably stems from its misguided policies. If the state genuinely aims to restore stability, it must prioritize political, economic, and social justice over military solutions. Without such reforms, Pakistan will continue to struggle with a destabilizing crisis in Balochistan, and history will continually ask: “Whose failure is this?”
