Terror troubles

We are barely a month into 2025 but terror seems to have followed on from last year – and it keeps getting worse. The night of Friday and Saturday saw a terrorist attack in Kalat, Balochistan, that claimed the lives of at least 18 soldiers, in yet another grim reminder of the persistent security challenges in the region. As security forces thwarted the attempt by militants, they also eliminated 23 terrorists in follow-up operations. Yet, while these tactical victories are commendable, they do not mask the underlying crisis in Balochistan – a crisis that requires more than just military responses. Balochistan has long been a battleground of insurgency, driven by complex political, economic and social grievances. Separatist militant groups like the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) have exploited these fault lines, engaging in violent attacks that claim innocent lives, including those of security personnel and civilians. While their claims of injustice may stem from genuine grievances, their methods only perpetuate the cycle of violence, leading to further alienation and suffering for the Baloch people. No legitimate cause can justify such bloodshed, and acts of terror must be unequivocally condemned. However, a purely militaristic approach – one that focuses solely on counterinsurgency without addressing the root causes – will only ensure that the flames of rebellion continue to smoulder.

The statements from our political elite reaffirming the state’s resolve against terrorism are expected, yet insufficient. Pakistan’s leadership must recognise that Balochistan’s crisis is as much a political problem as it is a security one. The failure to implement consistent development policies, address human rights concerns, and engage in meaningful dialogue with the people of Balochistan has created a fertile ground for insurgency. Issues such as enforced disappearances, economic marginalisation, and lack of political representation have contributed to the alienation of the Baloch population. Without addressing these core grievances, military operations will remain a temporary fix rather than a sustainable solution.

Historically, there have been attempts to address Balochistan’s issues through political initiatives. The Aghaz-e-Haqooq-e-Balochistan package introduced during the PPP’s tenure in 2009 and the 18th Amendment granting greater provincial autonomy were steps in the right direction, but their implementation fell short. These initiatives must be revisited and strengthened with genuine political commitment. The federal government must prioritise inclusive governance, economic upliftment and the protection of fundamental rights in Balochistan. Instead of allowing external actors to exploit the situation for their own interests, the state must proactively engage with Baloch leadership and communities to rebuild trust and foster long-term stability. The people of Balochistan deserve peace, development, and dignity. The state must recognise that counterterrorism cannot be limited to a battlefield; it must extend to classrooms, hospitals, and employment opportunities. The tragedy in Kalat should serve as a wake-up call to adopt a holistic strategy – one that combines robust security measures with genuine political and economic reforms. At the same time, groups like the BLA must not be given oxygen. It is naive and thoughtless to equate their violent tactics with a struggle for justice. Their attacks only serve to deepen the cycle of violence and repression. This is why it is even more important for the state to differentiate between genuine political grievances and violent extremism, ensuring that those who seek justice through peaceful means are heard – but those who engage in terror are firmly dealt with.