QUETTA: Balochistan Chief Minister Mir Sarfaraz Bugti dismissed claims of an insurgency in the province, calling them “so-called separatist movements” driven by anti-state forces and foreign interference. He said these elements aim to divide Pakistan “into pieces like a cake” through misinformation and violence.
Speaking at the 17th National Workshop, CM Bugti asserted that Balochistan is witnessing steady progress in governance, education, and counterterrorism. “There is no insurgency in Balochistan only propaganda designed to weaken the state,” he said.
Foreign role and misinformation
Bugti accused India’s intelligence agency RAW of actively supporting separatist elements in Balochistan. He warned that such groups are being manipulated through social media campaigns to mislead youth and widen the gap between the people and the state. “The so-called ‘angry Baloch’ narrative was created to justify terrorism,” he said. “Anyone who picks up arms against the state is not angry, but a terrorist.”
Unity against terrorism
The chief minister emphasized that the fight against terrorism is not the army’s responsibility alone but a collective effort of the nation. Referring to the first refugee camp established in 2002, he said it fueled terrorism in the region. “The war on terror is our shared fight we will not let the enemies of Pakistan succeed,” he vowed.
Youth engagement and development
Bugti said his government is working to rebuild trust by directly engaging universities and youth forums. “Propaganda tried to distance our youth from the state, but we are reconnecting through dialogue and opportunity,” he noted.
He highlighted major reforms in governance, including the reactivation of 3,200 schools and 164 basic health centers, and the posting of Assistant Commissioners in 24 sub-districts after a 12-year gap.
Strengthening security and administration
Bugti announced that Rs100 million has been allocated to strengthen the Counter Terrorism Department (CTD) for more effective security operations. “It is easy to identify an open enemy but challenging when the enemy hides within,” he remarked, referring to recent successful counterterrorism actions.
Concluding his address, the chief minister reiterated that the government’s stance against terrorism is “categorical and clear.” He urged those misled by separatist propaganda to abandon the path of violence. “The Baloch people are being pushed toward a dead end,” he said. “Our goal is to bring peace, progress, and unity because Pakistan’s stability is above all politics.”
