Balochistan hope

This refers to the news report, ‘Demand for free Balochistan can be withdrawn: Brahamdagh’ (August 27). At a time when the country, particularly Balochistan, is facing a combination of internal and external threats, this sudden change of stance rekindles a ray of hope in the otherwise grim political situation of the province. Thousands of people – both Baloch and non-locals – have lost their lives to violence in the province.
The scion of the late Nawab Akbar Bugti has offered the government to choose between talks and arms and has even decided to rethink the demand for an independent Balochistan. However, there are a number of caveats in his latest talks offer. This is a great opportunity for both the civilian and military establishment to try to make a good bargain and at least start a dialogue process with the disgruntled Baloch in an effort to bring them to the negotiating table. If the government succeeds in establishing contacts with the insurgents it will go a long way in bringing peace to the province. Moreover, there is a need to create employment opportunities for the educated Baloch and introducing a separate quota for them. Since many insurgents are educated, it will help persuade them to lay down their arms and stage a comeback in mainstream politics.
Kamran Baloch
Lahore