The issue of Balochistan is fundamentally political in nature. If we do not attempt to understand the political motivations behind an issue before seeking its resolution, and instead persist with a strategy of ignoring the concerns of various parties or stakeholders, it is natural for political problems to arise or worsen.
The current approach to resolving Balochistan’s issues seems to be exacerbating the problems, suggesting that there is a political impotence in dealing with these matters. The key to resolving issues is to first attempt to address them on a political basis before resorting to force. In an environment where distrust prevails among all parties, it is crucial to create a conducive environment for politics, democracy, dialogue, and bilateral meetings. This foundation helps in progressing towards a political solution and generates new political possibilities.
It is somewhat accurate to say that exceptional conditions in Balochistan might require stringent or extraordinary measures to improve the situation. However, politicians must also strive to resolve issues, and giving security forces the necessary resources and powers is a sound strategy. Yet, there seems to be a lack of political strategy from both federal and provincial governments for correcting the situation in Balochistan. It appears that politicians are not thinking beyond their own interests and believe that resolving Balochistan’s crisis is solely the responsibility of security forces.
This entire strategy highlights a failure of political leadership at both federal and provincial levels. It seems that the political leadership is either unwilling or unable to play a significant role in improving the situation in Balochistan. The question arises: if we do not view Balochistan’s situation through a national framework and those representing Balochistan in federal and provincial assemblies or the Senate do not take steps to improve the situation, how will conditions improve? Political leaders talk a lot about politics and democracy, but their agenda does not prioritize a political framework or roadmap for improving Balochistan. The situation is being viewed only through a security lens, and strategies are being devised on this basis.
The current situation in Balochistan demands a special joint session of Parliament solely dedicated to discussing Balochistan’s issues. The government and opposition should openly assess the situation there. Particularly, those with a connection to Balochistan should be heard more, and their perspectives should be acknowledged. It is important to understand the viewpoints of Baloch and Balochistani political leaders and to create a robust and effective strategy or roadmap for the future.
If the government and establishment believe that Balochistan’s issues are sensitive and involve interventions by countries like India, then a special in-camera session of Parliament could be convened to present the severity of the situation and gain consensus. A parliamentary committee comprising all parties could also be formed to present a constructive and positive roadmap for political strategies. It is also essential to engage with leaders or parties outside federal or provincial assemblies and consider their perspectives and suggestions.
In this consultation, Balochistan’s civil society, media, legal organizations, and business stakeholders should also be involved. To genuinely find a lasting political solution for Balochistan, a comprehensive policy that involves all stakeholders is necessary. Furthermore, the policy of granting amnesty to those who surrender their weapons or submit to the state should be advanced. The state and government strategy should avoid forcing those fighting for political rights to distance themselves from politics, democracy, and parliamentary processes.
After the 18th Amendment, when federal powers were transferred to the provinces, provincial governments should have demonstrated greater political acumen or maturity. Balochistan holds strategic importance, and therefore, a higher level of responsibility should be exhibited. However, the attempt to manage provincial matters in Balochistan through artificial or irresponsible means has limited political strategy options.
Alternative voices or sensitive issues in Balochistan may not always be accurate or may involve exaggeration, but addressing these matters through dialogue, understanding, and negotiation is crucial. The failure of provincial governments in terms of political strategy, governance, and acknowledging political and social rights contributes to their failure. We must remember that worsening conditions can give internal and external forces an opportunity to exploit our instability. Political issues should be resolved within a political framework.