Balochistan CM Promises to Reinstate Checkpoints, Condemns Terrorists as Enemies of Pakistan

Balochistan :

Chief Minister Sarfraz Bugti addressed the media on Monday, firmly stating that the recent violence in the province should not be misconstrued as an ethnic conflict but rather recognized as acts of terrorism. Bugti asserted, “It was terrorists who killed Pakistanis,” clarifying that Balochs were not responsible for the deaths of Punjabis. This statement comes amidst ongoing violence and unrest in Balochistan, which has raised concerns about the security situation in the region.

In his press conference held in Quetta, Bugti announced a decisive move to restore law and order in the province by reinstating checkpoints across Balochistan. This measure aims to bolster security and prevent further acts of terrorism. Bugti rejected any form of propaganda that seeks to undermine the state’s authority, stating unequivocally, “We will not tolerate any challenge to the state’s authority, and we will protect our citizens at all costs.”

The Chief Minister also addressed the issue of sympathizers of the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA), urging them to either resign from their government positions or openly support the militant group if they so wish. This call reflects Bugti’s stance against any form of support for terrorism and his commitment to holding individuals accountable for their affiliations.

Highlighting the progress in addressing missing persons cases, Bugti revealed that 84% of such cases had been resolved. He criticized the leaders of the missing persons’ movement for their lack of engagement during negotiations, accusing them of attempting to portray the state as ineffective and garnering support for terrorists. “Their only aim is to portray the state as a failure and to cultivate support for terrorists,” Bugti asserted.

In his commitment to combat terrorism, Bugti emphasized that the reinstated checkpoints would serve as a crucial tool in preventing terrorist movements and ensuring the security of the province. He also warned that supporters of terrorists would face consequences, underlining that the government would not be swayed by social media propaganda. “We will not succumb to social media propaganda; we will take all necessary measures to ensure the province’s peace and security,” Bugti vowed.

Bugti criticized the portrayal of terrorists as “disgruntled Balochs” by some media and social circles, stressing that such labels fail to acknowledge the true nature of the violence. He expressed openness to dialogue with political groups but firmly ruled out negotiations with terrorists. “If this is a political issue, we are willing to talk to political parties, but there will be no dialogue with terrorists,” he stated.

Identifying three key groups opposing the state—armed groups, social activists, and social media users—Bugti noted that some individuals are unknowingly influenced by baseless propaganda. He cited the example of Bashir Zeb, a known terrorist whose family members were employed by the government and supported terrorist activities.

Bugti reiterated that the government would not spare terrorists or their facilitators, announcing plans to restrict 4G internet services. This measure aims to curb the dissemination of terrorist attack footage and other related content. The Chief Minister extended an olive branch to those willing to disarm and reintegrate into mainstream society, emphasizing that motives would be closely scrutinized to prevent misuse.

“We cannot allow someone to disarm, receive treatment, and then return to stand against the state once they recover,” Bugti warned. He paid tribute to the ten Frontier Corps soldiers recently killed in a terrorist attack, honoring their sacrifice and reaffirming the government’s commitment to supporting the oppressed and maintaining peace in Balochistan.

“The people of Balochistan have always opposed armed actions and desired peace,” Bugti concluded, reinforcing his dedication to restoring stability and security in the province.