ISLAMABAD (PEN) : Defence Minister Stresses Dialogue and Meaningful Engagement for Resolving Grievances
Defence Minister Khawaja Asif has suggested that Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) President Nawaz Sharif may take a pivotal role in addressing the ongoing issues in Balochistan after Eid. His comments come amid protests and unrest sparked by recent developments in the province, including the arrests of key figures from the Baloch Yakjehti Committee (BYC) and a police crackdown on peaceful demonstrations.
Nawaz Sharif’s Potential Involvement
Khawaja Asif stated that Nawaz Sharif had already expressed his willingness to engage in resolving the Balochistan issue. However, due to ongoing medical advice, Nawaz has been unable to take any significant action. Asif mentioned that Sharif is expected to become more involved after Eid.
The unrest in Balochistan intensified following a series of shutter-down strikes and protests in Karachi, particularly in response to the arrest of Dr. Mahrang Baloch, the BYC’s chief organizer, along with 16 other activists. These arrests occurred after allegations of police brutality during a protest in Quetta, where three protesters reportedly died.
Focus on Meaningful Dialogue
The defence minister emphasized that any decision regarding Balochistan must involve meaningful engagement with the traditional leadership of the province. Asif stressed that conflicts, both globally and locally, are best resolved through dialogue. He reiterated the need to include Baloch leadership in any discussions and negotiations about the region’s future.
Reflecting on the broader historical context, Asif highlighted that the grievances in Balochistan stretch back over five decades and, therefore, require comprehensive efforts to address them. He proposed that Balochistan’s Chief Minister, Sarfraz Bugti, should lead the negotiations, with former chief minister Dr. Abdul Malik Baloch playing a crucial role in facilitating dialogue.
Police Action and Legal Process
Regarding the police’s handling of the protests, Asif acknowledged that arrests should be made according to the law. He called for all matters related to these protests to be resolved through lawful negotiations. Asif also condemned the practice of targeting families of political opponents in online discourse, stressing that such actions were detrimental to the political environment.
The Situation in Afghanistan
Asif also touched upon Pakistan’s strained relationship with Afghanistan. He expressed concern about the deteriorating situation since his visit to Kabul over a year ago. The defence minister noted that Pakistan had hoped for improved bilateral relations with Afghanistan, but recent developments, particularly security issues, have hindered progress.
Asif cited the growing number of terrorist incidents in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, many of which were linked to Afghanistan-based militants. He pointed out that a large segment of the banned Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) is currently operating from Afghanistan, and both nations must take decisive steps to address these threats.
