Jaffar Express attack

On Tuesday (March 11), terrorists allegedly from the BLA attacked the Jaffar Express train in the Bolan District of Balochistan while it was travelling from Quetta to Peshawar. The train was reportedly carrying around 400 passengers. While many passengers were reportedly let go, as of writing, security forces are still trying to free the remaining passengers and eliminate the terrorists. At least nine security officials have been martyred while at least 27 militants have been killed. In light of this atrocity, policymakers should launch a national dialogue on the terror issue and decide on how to put an end to militancy. Any workable strategy would seek to incorporate local leaders. A failure to come up with the right answers would deal a grave blow to this country.

Syed Muzammil Hussain

Islamabad