Balochistan Insurgency and Beyond

For decades, insurgency and unrest have plagued Balochistan, Pakistan’s largest and most resource-rich province. Despite its abundance of minerals and resources, it remains the country’s poorest province in terms of development and infrastructure. With vast reserves of gas, coal, and minerals, Balochistan continues to face economic marginalization and political instability. The ongoing conflict in Balochistan is not a recent phenomenon but rather the culmination of historical grievances, political maneuvering, socioeconomic deprivation, and a deep sense of alienation among the Baloch people.

Historically, the roots of the Balochistan insurgency trace back to the contentious accession of Kalat State to Pakistan in 1948. Opinions were divided, with some factions supporting integration into Pakistan while others opposed it. Following the controversial accession, Prince Karim Khan of Kalat led the first armed rebellion, setting the stage for subsequent insurgencies in 1958, 1963–69, and 1973–77. With the formation of the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA), the conflict escalated into a guerrilla war, characterized by hit-and-run tactics.

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Despite being home to some of Pakistan’s most valuable natural resources, Balochistan remains its poorest province. The Sui gas field, discovered in 1952, has powered Pakistan’s industries and households for decades, yet the local Baloch population continues to live in poverty. Unemployment, illiteracy, and a lack of basic infrastructure perpetuate feelings of exploitation and neglect.

At the same time, the lack of genuine political representation and instances of political engineering have deprived the people of Balochistan of electing true representatives. A critical factor exacerbating the insurgency is the issue of enforced disappearances and extrajudicial killings. Human rights watchdogs, including Amnesty International, have regularly documented instances of political activists and suspected insurgents disappearing without a trace. The Voice for Baloch Missing Persons (VBMP) claims that thousands of individuals remain missing, creating an environment of fear and distrust.

Another important aspect of the conflict is the involvement of external actors. From supplying arms and ammunition to providing training, foreign elements—particularly India—have been accused of fueling instability in Balochistan. The capture of Indian Navy commander Kulbhushan Jadhav in Balochistan serves as evidence of India’s involvement in supporting militant activities in the region.

One of the major realities of the Balochistan conflict is the fragmented nature of insurgent groups. Organizations such as the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA), the Baloch Republican Army (BRA), and the Baloch Liberation Front (BLF) pursue different goals, ranging from complete independence to greater provincial autonomy. This lack of unity weakens the insurgency but also complicates peace negotiations.

Similarly, Balochistan’s strategic location makes it a focal point of regional and international interests. The China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), with its major hub in Gwadar Port, has introduced new dimensions to the conflict. Local communities feel marginalized, believing that CPEC projects benefit outsiders rather than addressing their socio-economic grievances. Additionally, Baloch nationalist movements, such as the Baloch Yakjaheti Committee (BYC), accuse the state of exploiting the region’s resources without fair compensation.

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Moreover, the state’s approach to the insurgency has largely relied on security measures, with a significant presence of military and paramilitary forces. While these operations aim to restore stability and counter threats, they have also led to unintended consequences for the local population. Concerns over the handling of missing persons have fueled grievances, which insurgent groups have sought to exploit for their narratives.

The only sustainable path to peace lies in meaningful dialogue with all stakeholders. The government should initiate transparent negotiations with Baloch leaders and reach out to insurgent factions willing to engage in dialogue. Establishing a credible truth and reconciliation commission to address past grievances would also help build trust.

Furthermore, engaging youth and ensuring their political participation can foster a sense of inclusion. Much of Balochistan’s discontent stems from economic deprivation despite its resource wealth. The state must ensure that the revenue generated from natural resources directly benefits local communities. Implementing local job quotas in CPEC projects and prioritizing community development initiatives can help bridge the economic gap.

To address human rights concerns, the government must take concrete steps to end enforced disappearances and hold accountable those responsible for extrajudicial killings. Establishing an independent commission to investigate such cases would help restore public confidence and weaken insurgent narratives.

Finally, redefining security policies is essential. A shift from a militaristic approach to a community-centric strategy is needed. Instead of relying solely on force, efforts should focus on community engagement, respecting local traditions, and fostering cooperation with tribal elders.

There is no denying that the Balochistan conflict is a complex issue rooted in historical grievances, socioeconomic marginalization, and political alienation. Addressing the crisis requires a balanced approach that combines political reconciliation, economic empowerment, human rights protection, and strategic communication. By fostering a genuine sense of inclusion and addressing the root causes of discontent, Pakistan can pave the way for lasting peace and stability in Balochistan.