Sir. Immensely pleased to see your write up on Balochistan. This topic has been of interest to me for a long time due to my association and friendship with some very close friends from the region.
The Balochistan insurgencies are rooted in a history of political betrayal and economic marginalization. After the forced annexation of Kalat in 1948, Balochistan’s relationship with Pakistan was defined by mistrust. Muhammad Ali Jinnah’s betrayal over Kalat’s independence, Zulfikar Ali Bhutto’s brutal military crackdown during the 1973-77 insurgency, and General Musharraf’s hardline approach exacerbated the alienation of the Baloch people. Dominance by Punjabi elites and the exploitation of Balochistan’s natural resources have only deepened the divide.
In a surprising twist, General Zia-ul-Haq, despite his authoritarian rule, took a different approach. His rivalry with Bhutto led him to release Baloch leaders from prison, offering jobs and contracts in an attempt to neutralize opposition. Yet, this was a tactical move, not a genuine shift in policy.
Unlike previous insurgencies led by tribal Sardars, the current uprising is middle-class-driven, with Sardars playing a diminished role. The movement is more grassroots, with a stronger emphasis on Baloch identity and autonomy. Many believe Balochistan is now closer than ever to achieving independence, driven by widespread public support and a shift in leadership.
Sir. Immensely pleased to see your write up on Balochistan. This topic has been of interest to me for a long time due to my association and friendship with some very close friends from the region.
The Balochistan insurgencies are rooted in a history of political betrayal and economic marginalization. After the forced annexation of Kalat in 1948, Balochistan’s relationship with Pakistan was defined by mistrust. Muhammad Ali Jinnah’s betrayal over Kalat’s independence, Zulfikar Ali Bhutto’s brutal military crackdown during the 1973-77 insurgency, and General Musharraf’s hardline approach exacerbated the alienation of the Baloch people. Dominance by Punjabi elites and the exploitation of Balochistan’s natural resources have only deepened the divide.
In a surprising twist, General Zia-ul-Haq, despite his authoritarian rule, took a different approach. His rivalry with Bhutto led him to release Baloch leaders from prison, offering jobs and contracts in an attempt to neutralize opposition. Yet, this was a tactical move, not a genuine shift in policy.
Unlike previous insurgencies led by tribal Sardars, the current uprising is middle-class-driven, with Sardars playing a diminished role. The movement is more grassroots, with a stronger emphasis on Baloch identity and autonomy. Many believe Balochistan is now closer than ever to achieving independence, driven by widespread public support and a shift in leadership.