Category: Editorial

The ongoing protests in Quetta following the abduction of 11-year-old Mohammad Musawir highlight the deepening security crisis in Balochistan, a province already grappling with longstanding challenges of lawlessness and unrest. Despite the boy’s kidnapping three days ago, authorities, including law enforcement agencies, have failed to recover him, further eroding public trust in the government’s ability to ensure the safety of its citizens.
The protest strike, organized by the Central Traders Association of Balochistan, has become a symbol of growing frustration with the provincial administration’s inability to protect the public from rising criminal activities. The situation is exacerbated by the disruption of vital transport routes, including the Quetta-Chaman Highway, which connects Balochistan to other parts of the country and is crucial for trade with Afghanistan. The blockage of roads has not only caused severe inconvenience to the general public but has also affected the local economy, particularly the Afghan transit trade.
More than just a protest against a single case, these demonstrations reflect the deep-seated concerns of a population that feels increasingly vulnerable in the face of unchecked violence. The fact that an 11-year-old child, the son of a prominent tribal elder, can be abducted in broad daylight with no immediate resolution from authorities speaks volumes about the deteriorating law and order situation in the region.
Political parties and community leaders are rightly demanding stronger measures to safeguard citizens, but the question remains: will the government act decisively to address the root causes of insecurity? The residents of Balochistan have waited long enough for justice and accountability, and it is high time that the authorities rise to the challenge. Only through swift action, transparency, and a comprehensive security strategy can public confidence in the system be restored.

The recent launch of a major road improvement project by Chief Minister Balochistan, Mir Sarfraz Bugti, is a welcome development that promises to enhance the infrastructure of Quetta, the provincial capital. With an investment of PKR 225.438 million, the initiative aims to upgrade key roadways, ensuring smoother and safer travel for the city’s residents. The project, under the auspices of the Communication Works, Physical Planning, and Housing Department, will see roads being carpeted in phases, gradually transforming the urban landscape of Quetta.
For years, Balochistan has suffered from one of the poorest road networks in Pakistan. A province rich in natural resources and strategic importance, yet ironically, its transportation infrastructure has been a significant bottleneck for development. Quetta, the largest city in the region, is emblematic of this crisis. Crumbling roads, traffic congestion, and a lack of proper connectivity have stymied economic growth, mobility, and even basic safety for its residents.
The province’s inadequate road network has long been a source of frustration for its citizens. Poorly maintained roads not only hinder the daily lives of commuters but also limit access to healthcare, education, and markets, particularly in rural areas where the condition of roads is even worse. Moreover, the deteriorating infrastructure has contributed to a significant gap in Balochistan’s economic development compared to other regions of Pakistan. While the country’s major cities boast modern highways and well-developed roads, Balochistan’s urban and rural areas have struggled with neglected infrastructure.
The Quetta road improvement project, however, signals a positive shift. By investing in road carpeting and modernizing the city’s infrastructure, the provincial government aims to address the growing demand for better urban connectivity. This move not only improves transportation within the city but also enhances road safety, which has been a critical concern given the poor conditions of many thoroughfares.
But while the project is a step in the right direction, it is important to recognize that this is just the beginning of a much-needed overhaul of Balochistan’s transportation system. The road improvements in Quetta, though significant, must be seen in the context of the larger provincial infrastructure deficit.
Addressing Balochistan’s poor communication and road infrastructure requires a long-term commitment from the government. Road development needs to be coupled with investments in maintenance, planning, and urban design to ensure that these improvements are not just temporary fixes but long-term solutions. Furthermore, there must be a focus on connecting Quetta with other major cities and towns in the province to create a truly integrated transportation network.
In conclusion, while the launch of this road improvement project in Quetta marks an important milestone, it is crucial that Balochistan’s government continues to prioritize infrastructure development across the entire province. A well-connected Balochistan is not only a necessity for the convenience and safety of its residents but also for the province’s economic prosperity and its integration into the national mainstream. Let this be the first of many such projects that will help bridge the gap between Balochistan and the rest of Pakistan, opening up new opportunities for progress and growth.

Balochistan, Pakistan’s most volatile province, has witnessed a disturbing surge in terrorist attacks over the past eight months, with over  140 lives lost and hundreds more injured in nine separate incidents. The months of August, September, October and November were particularly deadly, with attacks targeting civilians, laborers, and security forces alike.
Among the most harrowing incidents was the suicide bombing at Quetta Railway Station on November 9, which claimed 26 lives and left more than 60 injured. Earlier, in March 2024, terrorists executed a brutal ambush near Noshki, killing nine civilians. The province has also seen abductions, such as the June kidnapping of five people from the Shaban area, whose fates remain unknown. In May, gunmen killed seven Punjabi laborers in Gwadar, and in August, multiple attacks across Musakhel, Kalat, and Bolan left 36 dead.
This escalation in violence is attributed to separatist groups like the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA), which has intensified its insurgency. Despite numerous military operations, the insurgency continues to thrive, exacerbated by a political vacuum in the provincial government following the dismissal of the Interior Minister three months ago. The federal and provincial governments’ inability to address the root causes of the conflict has left Balochistan in a state of perpetual instability.
The brutal killing of innocent laborers and mine workers by proscribed separatist organizations including BLA is not only pushing the province to verge of destruction but it also fueling hatred amongst the local against the separatists.
In the face of this chaos, local tribes have begun organizing jirgas—traditional assemblies of elders to find a way forward. The Pashtunkhawa Milli Awami Party (Pkmap) has initiated a series of such meetings, with hopes of finding a political solution to the crisis. These jirgas offer a glimmer of hope that local leadership, rather than violence, may provide a pathway to peace.
Balochistan’s turmoil is not just a security issue; it is a political crisis that demands urgent resolution. Only a comprehensive and inclusive political dialogue can put an end to the bloodshed and restore stability to the region.

For too long, the educational syllabus has remained stagnant, focusing on rote learning methods that do little to foster critical thinking and creativity among students. The reference to outdated materials such as “Alif-Anaar” highlights the urgent need for modernization in teaching methods. By prioritizing a research-based curriculum, the government is setting a clear intent to elevate educational standards and outcomes.
The establishment of a Research and Development Wing within the Balochistan Text Book Board signifies a proactive approach to ensure that educational content is not only relevant but also aligned with national standards. This initiative, coupled with the introduction of a scanning barcode system for textbooks, demonstrates a commitment to integrating technology into the learning process. This will empower teachers with access to online resources, enhancing their ability to provide informed instruction.
Moreover, the decision to award the printing contract to credible firms is a positive step towards transparency and accountability, ensuring that financial resources are utilized effectively. The projected savings of approximately Rs. 1 billion when compared to inflation and other costs indicates a strategic approach to managing the province’s educational finances.
The Chief Minister’s encouragement for officers to maintain continuity in positive reforms, despite potential challenges, is crucial. It underscores the importance of resilience and commitment among government officials to uphold the integrity of these initiatives. Educational reforms cannot be successful if they are subject to disruptions due to political or bureaucratic pressures.
The recognition from the Punjab Text Book Board further validates the progressive steps taken by Balochistan’s government. It is encouraging to see that other provinces are looking to adopt Balochistan’s educational initiatives, reflecting a shift towards collaborative improvement across the region.
As the government prepares for the timely distribution of textbooks, it is essential to ensure that these reforms translate into tangible benefits for students and educators alike. The success of this initiative will depend on effective implementation, sustained monitoring, and active involvement from all stakeholders, including parents and community leaders.
In conclusion, Chief Minister Bugti’s vision for a research-based educational framework is a beacon of hope for Balochistan. If realized fully, it has the potential to transform the educational landscape, equipping the province’s children with the skills necessary to thrive in an increasingly competitive world. The journey towards educational reform is fraught with challenges, but with determination and strategic planning, Balochistan can indeed forge a new path for its future generations.

The monster of terrorism revisited Balochistan on Friday when a bomb ripped through a busy bazaar of Mastung city in the early hours. Apparently the target of the attack was girls high school. As many as 9 people, among them five children, lost their lives while 29 others were injured. The incidents of terrorism have not abated in Balochistan despite the strong measures in place by the state agencies and the security apparatus for containing the monster. There are many who point fingers at the efficiency of the security forces as and when such an untoward incident occurs. There is no denying the fact that security forces have the foremost responsibility of providing protection to the life and property of the citizenry yet the varied forms of militancy that happen to occur in Balochistan are highly challenging.
The militancy in Balochistan is unique in many ways. There are religious and sectarian groups active in the province with their own agenda. These groups often target not only each other but also the security forces and some times even the innocent citizens for their ulterior motives. Similarly, another challenging factor, and perhaps the most daunting one, is the secular militant groups that are active with an agenda of gaining greater autonomy and in extreme cases a separatist agenda. They are too active and create terror in the province targeting security apparatus, schools, hotels and state installations for gaining their political ends.
It may be mentioned here that all the foregoing militant groups would not succeed in their attempts to bleed the state and innocent citizenry, had there not been sympathizers and facilitators for them among the populace. There are passive supporters and facilitators of these groups who live among the populace and provide them all the required intelligence.
This makes the job of the security and intelligence agencies all the more challenging and the phenomenon of counter terrorism complicated. Therefore, it is not humanly possible to keep an Argus-eye on all the armed and unarmed enemies of peace and humanity with multiple limitations at hand.
The security forces, indubitably, have suffered huge losses in their attempts to contain terrorism and militancy of all kinds in the province. Therefore, their sacrifices must be acknowledged in order to boost their morale in their war against terrorism. This war can only be won when there is unity among the entire nation, its institutions and the masses in their resolve to defeat the menace and win a peaceful and prosperous place for all the people of Pakistan.

The recent inauguration of the Chief Minister Youth Skills Development Programme by Mir Sarfraz Ahmed Bugti marks a significant step toward addressing the unemployment crisis in Balochistan. With plans to send 30,000 skilled youngsters abroad for livelihood opportunities, this initiative is a long-awaited dream for many, promising hope and development.
Bugti’s emphasis on meritocracy and equal representation from all districts is commendable. It reflects a commitment to inclusivity and fairness, ensuring that every aspiring individual has a chance to succeed. The first batch of skilled youths set to depart in November symbolizes a crucial turning point for the province, potentially transforming lives and uplifting communities.
The Chief Minister’s call for a positive approach among the youth resonates deeply. It is imperative that these young ambassadors of Pakistan showcase the best of our nation abroad, countering negative stereotypes and fostering goodwill. Moreover, the commitment to provide educational opportunities under the Benazir Bhutto Scholarship Programme is a promising investment in the future of Balochistan.
However, the path forward is not without challenges. The specter of unemployment and societal issues cannot be overlooked. Bugti rightly highlighted the need to combat extremism and the allure of negative influences. By engaging youth in constructive and meaningful ways, we can redirect their energies toward development rather than despair.
As Balochistan stands on the brink of transformation, it is crucial for both the government and the community to support this initiative wholeheartedly. Empowering our youth is not just about sending them abroad; it is about building a resilient future for Balochistan, fostering a sense of identity, and paving the way for sustainable development. The time for action is now—let us embrace this opportunity to uplift our youth and, in turn, our province.

Imran Khan, the former Prime Minister of Pakistan, has been making a number of dangerous threats and statements since he was ousted from power in April 2022. These threats have raised concerns about his intentions and the potential impact they could have on Pakistan’s stability. One of Khan’s most dangerous threats is his claim that he will be more dangerous if he is not in power. He has made this claim on multiple occasions, including in a speech to his supporters in May 2022. In this speech, Khan said that he would “not sit quietly” if he was not allowed to return to power. Khan’s threats have been taken seriously by many observers, who believe that he could incite violence or even lead an armed uprising. This is a real concern, given Khan’s popularity among some segments of the Pakistani population. In addition to his threats of violence, Khan has also been making a number of false claims about the state of Pakistan’s economy. He has claimed that the country is on the verge of bankruptcy and that the current government is illegitimate. These claims have been widely debunked by economists and other experts.

Khan’s false claims are dangerous because they could undermine public confidence in the government and the economy. They could also lead to social unrest and instability. It is important to note that Khan is not the only one making dangerous threats and statements in Pakistan. There are a number of other political figures and groups who are also engaged in this type of behaviour. This is a worrying trend, as it could lead to an increase in violence and instability in the country. The international community should be concerned about the dangerous threats and statements being made by Imran Khan and other Pakistani political figures. These threats could have a significant impact on Pakistan’s stability and could even lead to violence. The international community should work to encourage all Pakistani political actors to engage in peaceful dialogue and to refrain from making threats or false claims.

In May 2022, Khan threatened to “take to the streets” if the government did not hold early elections. In June 2022, Khan claimed that the current government was “illegitimate” and that he was the “real” Prime Minister. In July 2022, Khan accused the government of planning to assassinate him. In August 2022, Khan called on his supporters to “prepare for a long struggle” against the government. Khan’s plans could have a significant impact on Pakistan’s stability. His threats of violence could incite unrest and lead to an increase in violence. His false claims about the economy could undermine public confidence and lead to social unrest. The international community should be concerned about the potential impact of Khan’s plans. These plans could have a significant impact on Pakistan’s stability and could even lead to violence. The international community should work to encourage all Pakistani political actors to engage in peaceful dialogue and to refrain from making threats or false claims.