Since its inception, Pakistan has grappled with a labyrinthine array of socio-political and geographical challenges. These difficulties have been further exacerbated by deep-seated ethnic divisions stemming from the nation’s diverse composition. This essay endeavors to elucidate the emergence of ethnic rising in Baluchistan and its profound repercussions on Pakistan’s socio-economic and political terrain. Pakistan, characterized by its multi-ethnic and linguistically diverse populace, contends with enduring disparities that serve as fuel for ethnic fragmentation.
The ascendance of ethno-nationalism serves only to further polarize the nation. Baluchistan, a province home to Baloch and Pashtun ethno-linguistic groups, has historically been marked by schisms. The legacy of colonialism has perpetuated these divisions, setting Pashtuns against Baloch and fomenting discord among various Baloch tribes.
The central government’s disregard for Baloch issues has inadvertently nourished insurgency, providing fertile ground for groups like the Baloch Liberation Army and Lashkar-e-Baluchistan to thrive. This ethnically charged polarization poses a grave threat to Pakistan’s socio-economic fabric and imperils the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).
Insufficient planning and the fragile capacity of governance have engendered turmoil in Baluchistan, a province now teetering on the precipice of precariousness. Over time, Baloch nationalists have spearheaded numerous insurgencies, with the current wave notably propelled by the educated middle-class youth. The origins of these insurgencies are rooted in political alienation and economic disparity. Despite enduring historical injustices, a substantial portion of the Baloch population does not harbor aspirations for complete independence from Pakistan but rather yearns for heightened provincial autonomy. Baluchistan’s historical tapestry includes tribal chieftains supported by the state, reminiscent of tactics employed during the colonial era. The province’s political landscape was further convoluted by Pakistan’s formation, resulting in persistent unrest and strife among diverse factions. Enforced disappearances and constitutionally questionable practices have further fanned the flames of radical nationalism and insurgency. The state’s inability to redress these grievances and promote socio-economic progress continues to impede peace-building efforts. Baluchistan’s marginalized status in the federal framework only compounds these challenges, with mainstream political parties prioritizing other regions over the province’s development. To achieve enduring peace, a comprehensive overhaul and the formulation of inclusive policies are imperative.
Baluchistan, replete with natural resources including chromite, gold, gas, and minerals estimated at a staggering $50 trillion, paradoxically stands as one of Pakistan’s most impoverished provinces. Despite serving as a major gas producer, merely 14 out of 34 districts boast access to this resource, with the town of Sui itself lacking this fundamental amenity. Furthermore, an alarming 78% of the populace resides without access to electricity, while 62% grapples with the absence of clean drinking water. The Reko Diq and Saindak mines house colossal gold reserves, yet disputes surrounding agreements persist. Geographically strategic, Baluchistan plays a pivotal role in bridging East and Central Asia with the Middle East and the Indian Ocean via the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). Paradoxically, regional disparities persist, fostering mistrust and inadvertently bolstering recruitment efforts for militant organizations, as evidenced by attacks on educators and students.
Baluchistan, replete with natural resources including chromite, gold, gas, and minerals estimated at a staggering $50 trillion, paradoxically stands as one of Pakistan’s most impoverished provinces.
Baluchistan’s intricate ethnic mosaic includes a substantial Pashtun population, equivalent in size to the Baloch. The northern expanse has been a theater of international conflicts and religious radicalization. Over time, it has experienced an influx of three million Afghan refugees, stoking tensions. The militancy witnessed here is predominantly driven by ideology rather than grounded in Pashtun nationalism. The porous border with Afghanistan amplifies instability and exacerbates drug trafficking, thereby unsettling the region’s social fabric. Unconstitutional practices on the part of the central government and the targeted assassination of leaders have only added to the region’s palpable anxiety. Nonetheless, insurgency has failed to take root, primarily due to the educated populace’s preference for peaceful means. Rational governance from the central authorities is pivotal in quelling the burgeoning wave of nationalism.
The burgeoning ethno-nationalist wave imperils the very essence of integration in Pakistan, akin to the tragic fall of Dhaka. It corrodes the nation’s social fabric, hindering enlightenment, and cultural secularization, and perpetuating animosity and distrust. This tide of nationalism holds the potential to spark insurgencies, thereby undermining social harmony and stability while fueling ethnic polarization. It opens a door to foreign intervention from nations such as India, Iran, and Afghanistan and presents a very serious threat to the dream CPEC project.
Hence, the government must adopt a comprehensive approach that engages all stakeholders in the decision-making process. The time has come to usher in peace in this region, both for the well-being of the people and the stability of Pakistan. The nation cannot afford to endure another wave of ethnic unrest that might escalate into insurgencies. Therefore, it is of utmost urgency for the government to address economic disparities and rectify all grievances. Moreover, the state must take proactive measures to quell this rising tide of discontent.
About The Author
Zia ud din Kakar is a passionate student of politics hailing from Balochistan. He graduated from Bahauddin Zakriya University Multan in the field of political science. He is deeply interested in domestic politics of Pakistan.
The views expressed in this article are solely those of the original author and do not necessarily reflect or represent the views of Rationale-47.
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