Rising Militancy in Balochistan Highlights Urgent Need for National Dialogue
Kanwar M. Dilshad : The writer, a former Secretary Election Commission Pakistan. X @kmdilshad .
Balochistan has come under severe attack in recent days, with terror strikes leaving 17 security personnel and at least 31 civilians dead. Despite these challenges, Pakistan’s security forces remain resolute, eliminating 177 militants in targeted operations over the past three days.
Security experts and provincial leaders are urging the convening of a national jirga to address Balochistan’s pressing issues. Proposed participants include influential tribal elders such as Sardar Sanaullah Zehri, Sardar Yar Muhammad Rind, Asad Baloch, and Sardar Yaqub Nasir, as well as leaders from the Bugti and Mandokhel tribes and other prominent figures from Dera Ghazi Khan and Loralai. Former Chief Justice of Balochistan, Justice Amir-ul-Mulk, and senior military figures such as General Qadir Baloch and General Salahuddin Tirmizi could also provide guidance.
Meanwhile, a jirga in Barha was held at the request of Tirah Valley’s tribal representatives to address provincial government mismanagement, corruption in relief fund distribution, and the future roadmap for the region. Participants demanded transparent investigations and accountability while commending security forces for maintaining peace.
The ongoing violence in Balochistan and other provinces is impacting foreign investment, with billions of dollars from China, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE held as State Bank deposits merely to support the balance of payments. Any withdrawal could place Pakistan’s economy in serious jeopardy. Critics have also highlighted lavish provincial expenditures in contrast with the urgent needs of conflict-affected populations.
In Punjab, despite receiving 51.74% of federal revenue allocations under the NFC Award, many districts still struggle with poverty, unemployment, dilapidated infrastructure, inadequate healthcare, and poor schools. The provincial government has recently spent billions on festivals in select urban areas, raising questions about budget priorities.
Sindh is also facing scrutiny following the recent Gul Plaza fire in Karachi, which exposed negligence in urban management and building safety. Opposition leaders, including the MQM, have urged federal intervention, noting that Karachi’s status as a federal territory under the constitution may necessitate central oversight to protect citizens.
The situation underscores the urgent need for political solutions, equitable resource distribution, and strengthened governance across Pakistan’s provinces to address security, economic, and social challenges.
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