Pakistan’s Balochistan province is facing a fresh wave of security tensions, with the Baloch Liberation Army claiming attacks against Pakistani military personnel while Pakistan’s military has reported operations against militants.

The crisis has expanded beyond battlefield clashes. An explosion damaged a major gas transmission pipeline, disrupting supplies to several areas, while seven miners working for a private copper mining company were reportedly abducted by armed men.

Baloch activists have also alleged that Pakistani fighter jets carried out strikes in the Surab region, claiming civilian casualties. These allegations have not been independently verified, while Pakistan’s 

Pakistan’s Balochistan crisis escalates: Clashes erupt between Pak army & Baloch rebels

Human rights activist Mir Yar Baloch claimed that Pakistan had lost control of 85% of Balochistan's territory. He also asserted that a 5,00,000 strong rebel force is ready to drive out Pakistani forces in Balochistan by year-end. This comes at a time when internal turmoil has intensified in the province.


Setback for Munir as rebels claim control over 85% of Balochistan

At least 24 people have been killed in a suicide bomb attack that targeted a train carrying military personnel in Pakistan’s Balochistan province. The blast caused multiple train coaches to derail and catch fire, leaving dozens injured and several in critical condition. Emergency teams rushed to the site as authorities launched an investigation into the deadly attack.

Quetta Train Explosion: Baloch Crisis Deepens After Deadly Blast

Even as Pakistan attracts billions in global investment, rising violence in Balochistan threatens to derail growth. Attacks by the Baloch Liberation Army and regional instability are casting a shadow over projects backed by the U.S. and China.


Pakistan Caught Between Investment & Insurgency

Explore the life, rise, and eventual downfall of Rehman Dakait, the notorious Baloch gangster whose criminal empire shook Karachi and the surrounding regions. From his beginnings to his infamous activities and clashes with law enforcement, this video delves into the story behind one of Pakistan’s most infamous underworld figures. 

The Rise & Fall of Baloch Gangster Rehman Dakait | Prime Crime | WION 

Balochistan independence movement: In recent days, several developments related to the Balochistan independence movement took place, including a declaration of a separate Baloch state by some of its leaders, and a coordinated 71 attacks on Pakistani forces. Pakistan has been suppressing the Baloch independence movement, even as it exploits the resource-rich province. Here is what you should know about the Balochistan quest for freedom from Pakistan. 
<iframe width="600" height="auto" style="width: 100%; aspect-ratio: 4/3;" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" class="external-video publive-iframes-block" src="https://cdn.thepublive.com/wion/static/kaltura_player/wion_video_player_iframe.html?thumbnail=wion/media/post_attachments/screenshot/1305_WION_BLA_9PM/00000002.jpg&amp;videourl=https://vodakm.zeenews.com/vod/WION/1305_WION_BLA_9PM.mp4/index.m3u8&amp;duration=175&amp;tags=Pakistan, Balochistan, World News, WION" title="BLA claims responsibility for 71 attacks across Balochistan" id="PL_iframe_block-map8vfmi-a4c4t6lv-he0axn8e"></iframe>
&nbsp;
<h2>Where is Balochistan?</h2>
Balochistan is Pakistan&rsquo;s largest province by area, spanning around 44 per cent of the South Asian nation&rsquo;s territory. It is also Pakistan's poorest province.&nbsp;
Balochistan has some 13 million ethnic Baloch population.&nbsp;The Balochis are an Iranic group with a distinct language and tribal culture different from Pakistan. In fact, historically, the Balochistan region included parts of Iran and Afghanistan, besides Pakistan. 
The Balochistan independence movement seeks autonomy or full independence for Balochistan.
&nbsp;
<h2>What is Balochistan independence movement?</h2>
 The Balochistan's independence movement is as old as the creation of Pakistan in 1947. The erstwhile princely state of Kalat declared independence after the Partition of the Indian subcontinent by the departing British colonisers. But Balochistan was forcibly annexed by Pakistan in 1948.&nbsp; Over the years, Balochistan was politically and economically marginalised by Pakistan, along with human rights abuse of Balochis. 
<h2>Balochistan: a land rich in natural resources, where people remain poor </h2>
Most Balochis are poor, which is strange given that their land is rich in resources such as natural gas, coal, copper and gold.
Over the years, Pakistan exploited these resources through the Sui Gas Fields, Saindak, and Reko Diq mines, among others. These projects earned massive revenues for Pakistan, but Balochis were neglected, with Balochistan continuing to be Pakistan&rsquo;s poorest province.&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/exclusive-things-have-got-worse-in-balochistan-akbar-bugtis-grandson-appeals-for-global-support-323071">EXCLUSIVE| 'Things have got worse in Balochistan': Akbar Bugti's grandson appeals for global support</a>
 According to recent estimates, the GDP per capita of Balochistan is $710, while the poverty rate increased from 48 per cent in 2001 to 58 per cent by 2017.
&nbsp;
Baloch nationalists contend that Pakistan profits by exploiting its resources and channels the proceeds to Punjab-dominated elites, even as the locals suffer from unemployment and underdevelopment.
<h2>The China factor in Baloch independence movement : The fight against CPEC&nbsp;</h2>
In recent years, the Baloch nationalists focused their attention on the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).
The $62 billion infrastructure project linking China's Xinjiang to the Gwadar deep-water port runs through Balochistan and has led to the displacement of Baloch populations. Balochis are angry that Pakistan has prioritised Chinese interests even as CPEC, a part of China's ambitious Belt and Road Initiative or BRI, did not bring economic benefits to Balochistan. 
<h2>Leaders of Baloch movement were killed or repressed</h2>
The Balochistan independence movement is carried out through a number of organisations, including some that use military means to fight the Pakistani forces. 
There have been at least five major uprisings against Pakistan.
In 2005, Nawab Akbar Bugti, a former governor and tribal chief of the Balochis, led a rebellion. But he was killed in a 2006 Pakistani military offensive. The killing did not stop the Balochis. In fact, it reinvigorated their movement.
Nawab Bugti's grandson, Brahamdagh Bugti, who lives in exile in Switzerland, heads the Baloch Republican Party, advocating for independence.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistans-battle-within-7-soldiers-killed-in-ied-blast-in-balochistans-mach-9041492">Pakistan&rsquo;s battle within: 7 soldiers killed in IED blast in Balochistan</a>
Hyrbyair Marri, who is the son of another Baloch nationalist leader Khair Bakhsh Marri, leads the Free Balochistan Movement from London, and seeks a secular, democratic Balochistan.&nbsp;
 Dr Allah Nazar, leader of the Baloch Liberation Front, operates from Balochistan&rsquo;s Makran region, focusing on guerrilla tactics. Another top figure of Baloch movement, Ghulam Mohammed Baloch was killed in 2009, allegedly by Pakistani forces, drawing condemnation from the United Nations. 
<h2>Top Baloch independence movement organisations </h2>
Currently, the top groups in Balochistan Independence movement are the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA), Baloch Liberation Front (BLF), and Baloch Republican Army (BRA).&nbsp;
The BLA, formed in 2000 and led by Hyrbyair Marri, is the largest and most active militant force among the Balochs and has carried out bombings and attacks on infrastructure as well as Pakistan security forces. The Majeed Brigade of BLA carried out the &ldquo;Operation Herof&rdquo; this week, with 71 coordinated attacks targeting military and CPEC assets.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/balochistan-on-the-brink-armed-militant-seize-checkposts-as-independence-calls-grow-louder-9062526">Balochistan on the brink: Armed militants seize checkposts as independence calls grow louder</a>
The BLF, led by Allah Nazar, focuses its operations mainly in southern Balochistan.&nbsp;
Another group, the BRA, tied to Brahamdagh Bugti, also attacks security forces and opposes political dialogue.&nbsp;
Many of these groups have set aside their tribal rivalries and unified recently, forming alliances like BRAS with Sindhi separatists to fight Pakistan together. 
<h2>How Pakistan suppressed the Balochi independence movement</h2>
Pakistan&rsquo;s response has been brutal, even as it suffered military casualties, including in the recent train hijacking.
&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/republic-of-balochistan-trends-on-x-after-activists-declare-independence-from-pakistan-9067755">&lsquo;Republic of Balochistan&rsquo; trends on X after activists declare independence from Pakistan</a>
Pakistan has subjected Baloch nationalist leaders to severe repression. There have been a reported 5,000 enforced disappearances of Balochis.
Dozens of extrajudicial killings of Balochis have been reported by rights groups. The Baloch insurgency is now in its fifth wave since 2005&nbsp;as the local discontent against Pakistan grows. Global leaders, including India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi, have brought attention to the plight of Balochis under Pakistani rule.
&nbsp;

Balochistan wants independence: How Pakistan exploited Balochistan and suppressed quest for freedom. Balochistan attacks Baloch insurgency in South Asia

Balochistan independence movement: In recent days, several developments related to the Balochistan independence movement took place, including a declaration of a separate Baloch state by some of its leaders, and a coordinated 71 attacks on Pakistani forces. Pakistan has been suppressing the Baloch independence movement, even as it exploits the resource-rich province. Here is what you should know about the Balochistan quest for freedom from Pakistan. Where is Balochistan? Balochistan is Pakistan’s largest province by area, spanning around 44 per cent of the South Asian nation’s territory. It is also Pakistan's poorest province. Balochistan has some 13 million ethnic Baloch population. The Balochis are an Iranic group with a distinct language and tribal culture different from Pakistan. In fact, historically, the Balochistan region included parts of Iran and Afghanistan, besides Pakistan. The Balochistan independence movement seeks autonomy or full independence for Balochistan. What is Balochistan independence movement? The Balochistan's independence movement is as old as the creation of Pakistan in 1947. The erstwhile princely state of Kalat declared independence after the Partition of the Indian subcontinent by the departing British colonisers. But Balochistan was forcibly annexed by Pakistan in 1948. Over the years, Balochistan was politically and economically marginalised by Pakistan, along with human rights abuse of Balochis. Balochistan: a land rich in natural resources, where people remain poor Most Balochis are poor, which is strange given that their land is rich in resources such as natural gas, coal, copper and gold. Over the years, Pakistan exploited these resources through the Sui Gas Fields, Saindak, and Reko Diq mines, among others. These projects earned massive revenues for Pakistan, but Balochis were neglected, with Balochistan continuing to be Pakistan’s poorest province. EXCLUSIVE| 'Things have got worse in Balochistan': Akbar Bugti's grandson appeals for global support According to recent estimates, the GDP per capita of Balochistan is $710, while the poverty rate increased from 48 per cent in 2001 to 58 per cent by 2017. Baloch nationalists contend that Pakistan profits by exploiting its resources and channels the proceeds to Punjab-dominated elites, even as the locals suffer from unemployment and underdevelopment. The China factor in Baloch independence movement : The fight against CPEC In recent years, the Baloch nationalists focused their attention on the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). The $62 billion infrastructure project linking China's Xinjiang to the Gwadar deep-water port runs through Balochistan and has led to the displacement of Baloch populations. Balochis are angry that Pakistan has prioritised Chinese interests even as CPEC, a part of China's ambitious Belt and Road Initiative or BRI, did not bring economic benefits to Balochistan. Leaders of Baloch movement were killed or repressed The Balochistan independence movement is carried out through a number of organisations, including some that use military means to fight the Pakistani forces. There have been at least five major uprisings against Pakistan. In 2005, Nawab Akbar Bugti, a former governor and tribal chief of the Balochis, led a rebellion. But he was killed in a 2006 Pakistani military offensive. The killing did not stop the Balochis. In fact, it reinvigorated their movement. Nawab Bugti's grandson, Brahamdagh Bugti, who lives in exile in Switzerland, heads the Baloch Republican Party, advocating for independence. Pakistan’s battle within: 7 soldiers killed in IED blast in Balochistan Hyrbyair Marri, who is the son of another Baloch nationalist leader Khair Bakhsh Marri, leads the Free Balochistan Movement from London, and seeks a secular, democratic Balochistan. Dr Allah Nazar, leader of the Baloch Liberation Front, operates from Balochistan’s Makran region, focusing on guerrilla tactics. Another top figure of Baloch movement, Ghulam Mohammed Baloch was killed in 2009, allegedly by Pakistani forces, drawing condemnation from the United Nations. Top Baloch independence movement organisations Currently, the top groups in Balochistan Independence movement are the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA), Baloch Liberation Front (BLF), and Baloch Republican Army (BRA). The BLA, formed in 2000 and led by Hyrbyair Marri, is the largest and most active militant force among the Balochs and has carried out bombings and attacks on infrastructure as well as Pakistan security forces. The Majeed Brigade of BLA carried out the “Operation Herof” this week, with 71 coordinated attacks targeting military and CPEC assets. Balochistan on the brink: Armed militants seize checkposts as independence calls grow louder The BLF, led by Allah Nazar, focuses its operations mainly in southern Balochistan. Another group, the BRA, tied to Brahamdagh Bugti, also attacks security forces and opposes political dialogue. Many of these groups have set aside their tribal rivalries and unified recently, forming alliances like BRAS with Sindhi separatists to fight Pakistan together. How Pakistan suppressed the Balochi independence movement Pakistan’s response has been brutal, even as it suffered military casualties, including in the recent train hijacking. ‘Republic of Balochistan’ trends on X after activists declare independence from Pakistan Pakistan has subjected Baloch nationalist leaders to severe repression. There have been a reported 5,000 enforced disappearances of Balochis. Dozens of extrajudicial killings of Balochis have been reported by rights groups. The Baloch insurgency is now in its fifth wave since 2005 as the local discontent against Pakistan grows. Global leaders, including India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi, have brought attention to the plight of Balochis under Pakistani rule.

Balochistan wants independence: How Pakistan exploited Balochistan and suppressed its quest for freedom

In a major blow to Baloch human rights campaigner Mahrang Baloch, a Pakistani court has refused to hear her case. Detained since March 22 on terrorism-related charges, her family says the legal process is unfair and violates the basic principles of justice. Watch to know more!

Pakistan court refuses to hear detained activist Mahrang Baloch’s case

Nearly two dozen civilians were killed in Pakistan on Monday by the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA). They were pulled out from vehicles, segregated after their identities were checked, and then shot dead by the gunmen. The Baloch Liberation Army attacked railway lines, police stations, and vehicles on highways. As per officials, it is the most widespread assault by the insurgent group in years.&nbsp;

The BLA released a statement stating that it had killed more than 100 soldiers under "Operation Hereof”, by attacking Pakistan military checkpoints and army camps. The BLA claimed that the attackers, who are a part of ‘Majeed Brigade,' killed more than 40 soldiers during an attack on an army camp in Bela. However, Pakistan’s authorities have not confirmed whether the claim is true.&nbsp;

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BLA spokesman Jeeyand Balochm, as quoted by Economic Times, said, “Under the Baloch Liberation Army’s fidayeen operation ‘Herof,’ the fidayeen unit of the BLA’s Majeed Brigade attacked the occupying forces’ Bela camp, killing over 40 military personnel so far and holding control of a significant portion of the camp for the last six hours.” The statement added, “All the fidayeen are still safe and in contact with us.”&nbsp;

Militants in Balochistan have been fighting for decades to separate the southwestern province from the rest of Pakistan and make it an independent state. Balochistan is home to about 15 million people. The region is rich valuable minerals that haven’t been utilised fully yet.&nbsp;

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Balochistan is an important location for China's big investment project, the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), part of President Xi Jinping's larger plan known as the Belt and Road Initiative. 
 
The BLA was formed in 2000 to establish a state of Greater Balochistan. As per BBC, several Western nations, including the UK and the US, have designated the BLA as a global terror group.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Nearly two dozen civilians were killed in Pakistan on Monday by the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA). They were pulled out from vehicles, segregated after their identities were checked, and then shot dead by the gunmen.

Nearly two dozen civilians were killed in Pakistan on Monday by the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA). They were pulled out from vehicles, segregated after their identities were checked, and then shot dead by the gunmen. The Baloch Liberation Army attacked railway lines, police stations, and vehicles on highways. As per officials, it is the most widespread assault by the insurgent group in years. The BLA released a statement stating that it had killed more than 100 soldiers under "Operation Hereof”, by attacking Pakistan military checkpoints and army camps. The BLA claimed that the attackers, who are a part of ‘Majeed Brigade,' killed more than 40 soldiers during an attack on an army camp in Bela. However, Pakistan’s authorities have not confirmed whether the claim is true. Also Read|Russian launches 'biggest' air attack of war on Ukraine, 7 dead| BLA spokesman Jeeyand Balochm, as quoted by Economic Times, said, “Under the Baloch Liberation Army’s fidayeen operation ‘Herof,’ the fidayeen unit of the BLA’s Majeed Brigade attacked the occupying forces’ Bela camp, killing over 40 military personnel so far and holding control of a significant portion of the camp for the last six hours.” The statement added, “All the fidayeen are still safe and in contact with us.” Militants in Balochistan have been fighting for decades to separate the southwestern province from the rest of Pakistan and make it an independent state. Balochistan is home to about 15 million people. The region is rich valuable minerals that haven’t been utilised fully yet. Also Read|Risk of all-out war lowered after Israel-Hezbollah clash: Top US general| Balochistan is an important location for China's big investment project, the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), part of President Xi Jinping's larger plan known as the Belt and Road Initiative. The BLA was formed in 2000 to establish a state of Greater Balochistan. As per BBC, several Western nations, including the UK and the US, have designated the BLA as a global terror group. (With inputs from agencies)

Baloch Liberation Army: Militant group behind deadly attacks in Pakistan

A convoy of 23 Chinese engineers, which included one van and three SUVs, all bullet-proof, was attacked&nbsp;by Baloch militants in the Pakistani port city of Gwadar, Balochistan. The workers were involved in infrastructure projects. The three terrorists involved in the incident were neutralised in the incident, sources said. One Chinese suffered minor injures due to concussion. It was an&nbsp;IED explosion followed by gunfire. Sources said that two of the terrorists blew themselves up.&nbsp;

Moreover, two Pakistani soldiers are injured and one among them is in critical condition. Sources said that all Chinese&nbsp;engineers are safe. No local Pakistani civilians were harmed in&nbsp;the incident, according to media reports. CPEC (China-Pakistan Economic Corridor), a large-scale infrastructure and development project, aims to connect Gwadar deep-sea port&nbsp;to China's northwestern region of Xinjiang via a network of highways, railways, pipelines, and other infrastructure projects.&nbsp;

<h2>BLA claims responsibility&nbsp;</h2>

Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA), a separatist militant group based in the Balochistan province of Pakistan, claimed responsibility for the attack.

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"BLA Majeed Brigade today targeted a convoy of Chinese engineers in Gwadar. The attack is still ongoing," the separatist group said in a statement earlier today.

The group seeks greater autonomy or independence for Balochistan, which is rich in natural resources but has experienced socio-economic disparities and political tensions with the central government of Pakistan.

This is not the first time the BLA has targeted projects associated with CPEC. The BLA has been known to carry out attacks against various targets, including infrastructure projects associated with CPEC.&nbsp;

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Pakistani senator Sarfraz Bugti expressed strong condemnation of the incident. He also commended the security forces for repulsing the attack and eliminating the assailants.

"I strongly condemn the heinous terror attack on Chinese workers convoy in Gwadar. Thankfully, no loss of life happened, but there are reports that the ambush has been repulsed, and the attackers have been killed," Pakistani senator Sarfraz Bugti posted on X.

"The ruptures within the militants' fold are getting wider by the day as our armed forces are courageously thwarting their nefarious designs. There is no reprieve for anyone who casts an evil eye on Pakistan," Mr Bugti said.

<h2>Past attacks&nbsp;</h2>

Baloch separatists have previously claimed responsibility for various attacks. These incidents include a suicide bombing in which three Chinese academics and their Pakistani driver lost their lives when a woman suicide bomber detonated her device.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;Pakistani senator Anwar-ul-Haq Kakar is Pak's transitionary PM

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The BLA also claimed responsibility for a deadly attack at a luxury hotel in Quetta, which resulted in five casualties.&nbsp;In a separate incident in 2021, 12 individuals, including nine Chinese workers, were killed in a bus explosion near the Dasu dam site. Despite being Pakistan's least populous province, Balochistan possesses substantial mineral resources. The region's strategic importance, coupled with its resources, has led to ongoing tensions and conflicts surrounding development projects like CPEC.

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A convoy of 23 Chinese engineers, which included one van and three SUVs, all bullet-proof, was attacked by Baloch militants in the Pakistani port city of Gwadar, Balochistan.

A convoy of 23 Chinese engineers, which included one van and three SUVs, all bullet-proof, was attacked by Baloch militants in the Pakistani port city of Gwadar, Balochistan. The workers were involved in infrastructure projects. The three terrorists involved in the incident were neutralised in the incident, sources said. One Chinese suffered minor injures due to concussion. It was an IED explosion followed by gunfire. Sources said that two of the terrorists blew themselves up. Moreover, two Pakistani soldiers are injured and one among them is in critical condition. Sources said that all Chinese engineers are safe. No local Pakistani civilians were harmed in the incident, according to media reports. CPEC (China-Pakistan Economic Corridor), a large-scale infrastructure and development project, aims to connect Gwadar deep-sea port to China's northwestern region of Xinjiang via a network of highways, railways, pipelines, and other infrastructure projects. BLA claims responsibility Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA), a separatist militant group based in the Balochistan province of Pakistan, claimed responsibility for the attack. Also Read | Fresh cases of bubonic plague detected in China "BLA Majeed Brigade today targeted a convoy of Chinese engineers in Gwadar. The attack is still ongoing," the separatist group said in a statement earlier today. The group seeks greater autonomy or independence for Balochistan, which is rich in natural resources but has experienced socio-economic disparities and political tensions with the central government of Pakistan. This is not the first time the BLA has targeted projects associated with CPEC. The BLA has been known to carry out attacks against various targets, including infrastructure projects associated with CPEC. Also Read | Maui wildfires: Death toll climbs to 93, hundreds still missing Pakistani senator Sarfraz Bugti expressed strong condemnation of the incident. He also commended the security forces for repulsing the attack and eliminating the assailants. "I strongly condemn the heinous terror attack on Chinese workers convoy in Gwadar. Thankfully, no loss of life happened, but there are reports that the ambush has been repulsed, and the attackers have been killed," Pakistani senator Sarfraz Bugti posted on X. "The ruptures within the militants' fold are getting wider by the day as our armed forces are courageously thwarting their nefarious designs. There is no reprieve for anyone who casts an evil eye on Pakistan," Mr Bugti said. Past attacks Baloch separatists have previously claimed responsibility for various attacks. These incidents include a suicide bombing in which three Chinese academics and their Pakistani driver lost their lives when a woman suicide bomber detonated her device. WATCH | Pakistani senator Anwar-ul-Haq Kakar is Pak's transitionary PM × The BLA also claimed responsibility for a deadly attack at a luxury hotel in Quetta, which resulted in five casualties. In a separate incident in 2021, 12 individuals, including nine Chinese workers, were killed in a bus explosion near the Dasu dam site. Despite being Pakistan's least populous province, Balochistan possesses substantial mineral resources. The region's strategic importance, coupled with its resources, has led to ongoing tensions and conflicts surrounding development projects like CPEC. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

Pakistan: Convoy of 23 Chinese engineers attacked in Gwadar, 3 terrorists killed

The consultation on "Afghan peace and reconciliation: Pakistan's interests and policy options" was organised on Thursday by Pak Institute for Peace Studies (PIPS).

Experts here warned that the banned terrorist organisation Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) is forging nexus with Baloch separatists and local militant groups based in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan, a development which will likely exacerbate the already precarious security situation in the country, Dawn reported.

The representatives of political parties and civil society, academics, and journalists, among others, participated in the discussion.

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The main themes of the consultation included "Pak-Afghan bilateral relations: challenges and way forward" and "Emerging Afghan situation and its implications for the region."

Unlike in the past, this is for the first time that the TTP has started carrying out terrorist attacks in the Pashtoon areas of Balochistan, which is very disturbing, Dawn wrote quoting experts.

There is no clarity about Pakistan's policy for Afghanistan and the ruling coalition in the centre is also unclear how to deal with the TTP since talks with the proscribed group failed last year, the experts added, Dawn reported.

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The speakers said that the TTP and other local militant groups were filling the space left by mainstream and nationalist political parties in KP as they were no longer only jihadi-religious groups. They said these militant groups now promoted political and nationalist thoughts to achieve their vested interests., Dawn reported.

The Islamite militants, including TTP, and separatists have increased their attacks in Balochistan since the Taliban took over Kabul in August 2021, said a Quetta-based journalist who writes for international media. 
He said the group for the first time has started carrying out attacks in the Pashtoon areas of the province.

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Another expert said that the banned group was promoting its political agenda in the province by showing its sympathies for the people of Balochistan, demonstrating that it wanted to increase its presence there. 
Experts at the meet said that the local militant and separatist groups had entered into some sort of understanding with TTP. They argued that the government should open its door for talks with all militant groups.

President International Research Council for Religious Affairs Mohammad Israr Madani said they would have to enhance people-to-people contacts and trade to decrease the hostility of Afghans towards Pakistan. 
Madani said Pakistan should hold talks with Afghanistan continuously on different issues and these should not be limited to a single sitting. He also said Pakistan should make its border management policy people-friendly to facilitate the Afghan people.&nbsp;

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&nbsp;

The consultation on "Afghan peace and reconciliation: Pakistan's interests and policy options" was organised on Thursday by Pak Institute for Peace Studies (PIPS).

The consultation on "Afghan peace and reconciliation: Pakistan's interests and policy options" was organised on Thursday by Pak Institute for Peace Studies (PIPS). Experts here warned that the banned terrorist organisation Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) is forging nexus with Baloch separatists and local militant groups based in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan, a development which will likely exacerbate the already precarious security situation in the country, Dawn reported. The representatives of political parties and civil society, academics, and journalists, among others, participated in the discussion. Also Read | Japan's Kishida heads to Seoul for landmark summit with Yoon The main themes of the consultation included "Pak-Afghan bilateral relations: challenges and way forward" and "Emerging Afghan situation and its implications for the region." Unlike in the past, this is for the first time that the TTP has started carrying out terrorist attacks in the Pashtoon areas of Balochistan, which is very disturbing, Dawn wrote quoting experts. There is no clarity about Pakistan's policy for Afghanistan and the ruling coalition in the centre is also unclear how to deal with the TTP since talks with the proscribed group failed last year, the experts added, Dawn reported. Also Read | At least nine people killed in shooting at Texas mall; gunman killed by police The speakers said that the TTP and other local militant groups were filling the space left by mainstream and nationalist political parties in KP as they were no longer only jihadi-religious groups. They said these militant groups now promoted political and nationalist thoughts to achieve their vested interests., Dawn reported. The Islamite militants, including TTP, and separatists have increased their attacks in Balochistan since the Taliban took over Kabul in August 2021, said a Quetta-based journalist who writes for international media. He said the group for the first time has started carrying out attacks in the Pashtoon areas of the province. Watch | World at War: How is Russia's Wagner Group sending weapons into Sudan? × Another expert said that the banned group was promoting its political agenda in the province by showing its sympathies for the people of Balochistan, demonstrating that it wanted to increase its presence there. Experts at the meet said that the local militant and separatist groups had entered into some sort of understanding with TTP. They argued that the government should open its door for talks with all militant groups. President International Research Council for Religious Affairs Mohammad Israr Madani said they would have to enhance people-to-people contacts and trade to decrease the hostility of Afghans towards Pakistan. Madani said Pakistan should hold talks with Afghanistan continuously on different issues and these should not be limited to a single sitting. He also said Pakistan should make its border management policy people-friendly to facilitate the Afghan people. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

TTP forging nexus with Baloch separatists, militant groups: Experts

Gulzar Imam alias Shambay, the leader and founder of the banned Baloch National Army (BNA), was arrested in a high-profile operation by the Pakistani Army, the media wing of the military, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), said.

The army has described Imam as a “high value” target a "hardcore militant as well as founder and leader of the banned outfit Baloch National Army (BNA) which came into being after the amalgamation of Baloch Republican Army (BRA) and United Baloch Army (UBA)”.

“Gulzar Imam alias Shambay was apprehended after an innovatively conceived, carefully planned and meticulously executed operation, spanned over months over various geographical locations,” the ISPR said in a statement on Saturday.

However, the military did not disclose how and from where he was apprehended.

The military claims that Imam was in constant touch with “hostile intelligence agencies” who “tried to exploit him to work against Pakistan and its national interests”.

The military believes that Gulzar’s arrest would hinder the BNA’s operations in the restive Balochistan province.

Pakistan’s new military operation

The arrest of the Baloch outfit’s leader comes after Pakistan's announcement of a nationwide crackdown against the Islamic militants.

“The meeting agreed to launch an all-out comprehensive operation with the entire nation and the government, which will rid the country of the menace of terrorism with renewed vigour and determination,” the security committee said in a statement.

<h2>Pakistan: National Security Committee to launch new military operation against militants</h2>

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However, experts believe that it could put further strain on cash-strapped Pakistan which is facing economic and political crises.

It is not only on the verge of defaulting on its payments—with an International Monetary Fund bailout programme stalled since November—the political battle between the government and former prime minister Imran Khan has also caused significant volatility in the Islamic country.

The last time it launched an all-out operation against Islamist militants was in 2014, and it cost the country billions of dollars and resulted over a million people being displaced and hundreds being killed, reports Reuters news agency.

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
&nbsp;

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Gulzar Imam alias Shambay, the leader and founder of the banned Baloch National Army (BNA), was arrested in a high-profile operation by the Pakistani Army, the media wing of the military, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), said.

Gulzar Imam alias Shambay, the leader and founder of the banned Baloch National Army (BNA), was arrested in a high-profile operation by the Pakistani Army, the media wing of the military, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), said. The army has described Imam as a “high value” target a "hardcore militant as well as founder and leader of the banned outfit Baloch National Army (BNA) which came into being after the amalgamation of Baloch Republican Army (BRA) and United Baloch Army (UBA)”. “Gulzar Imam alias Shambay was apprehended after an innovatively conceived, carefully planned and meticulously executed operation, spanned over months over various geographical locations,” the ISPR said in a statement on Saturday. However, the military did not disclose how and from where he was apprehended. The military claims that Imam was in constant touch with “hostile intelligence agencies” who “tried to exploit him to work against Pakistan and its national interests”. The military believes that Gulzar’s arrest would hinder the BNA’s operations in the restive Balochistan province. Pakistan’s new military operation The arrest of the Baloch outfit’s leader comes after Pakistan's announcement of a nationwide crackdown against the Islamic militants. “The meeting agreed to launch an all-out comprehensive operation with the entire nation and the government, which will rid the country of the menace of terrorism with renewed vigour and determination,” the security committee said in a statement. Pakistan: National Security Committee to launch new military operation against militants However, experts believe that it could put further strain on cash-strapped Pakistan which is facing economic and political crises. It is not only on the verge of defaulting on its payments—with an International Monetary Fund bailout programme stalled since November—the political battle between the government and former prime minister Imran Khan has also caused significant volatility in the Islamic country. The last time it launched an all-out operation against Islamist militants was in 2014, and it cost the country billions of dollars and resulted over a million people being displaced and hundreds being killed, reports Reuters news agency. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Pak Army arrests top Baloch separatist leader after govt announces crusade against extremism

Baloch insurgents have claimed responsibility for the downing of a Pakistani military helicopter on Monday. Pakistan's army has dismissed the claims as 'propaganda'.

Pakistan: Insurgents claim Baloch chopper attack

Baloch insurgents have claimed responsibility for the downing of a Pakistani military helicopter on Monday. Pakistan's army has dismissed the claims as 'propaganda'. Palki Sharma gets you a report.

Gravitas: Baloch insurgents claim downing of Pak military helicopter

A group of Baloch activists held a protest here asking the United Nations' Human Rights Council to intervene and stop the 'genocide' in Balochistan.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sindh-baloch-and-pashtuns-protest-against-pakistan-army-atrocities-outside-unhrc-282766">Sindh, Baloch and Pashtuns protest against Pakistan Army atrocities outside UNHRC</a>

The demonstration held during the ongoing 43rd session of the UN Human Rights Council was organised by the Baloch Voice Association. The activists were seen holding banners with slogans--'Balochistan is bleeding', 'Free Balochistan' and 'Stop enforced disappearances'.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/Pakistan-news-update-breaking-Pakistan-army-threatened-to-kill-my-son-says-activist-Gul-Bukhari">Pakistan army threatened to kill my son, says activist Gul Bukhari</a>

Neela Quadri Baloch, President of the World Baloch Women's Forum said, "It`s almost 70 years United Nations is here, and it`s almost 70 years that Pakistan has occupied Balochistan and they are responsible for our genocide.

"A large number of political activists, students and intellectuals have gone missing in Balochistan, allegedly abducted up by the security forces. Activists say many of those abducted were killed and their mutilated bodies were found in isolated places."They are using rape as a tool of oppression. They are taking our women, they are torturing them.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="http://13.235.153.162/videos/human-rights-commission-of-pakistan-report-sheds-light-on-balochistan-253592/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

This is the time the UN should understand and feel a responsibility to come to Balochistan and intervene," Neela Quadri Baloch said."UN should monitor what`s going on in Balochistan. You can`t walk in Balochistan ten meters without a check post.

So, we are living in occupied land, we are living in a hell that is made by the state of Pakistan. There should be an intervention by the UN in Balochistan and there should be fact-finding missions because there are mass graves, more than 40,000 people are missing. Our whole nation is in Great Depression", said the woman activist.

Munir Mengal, the president of the Baloch Voice Association said, "The people in Balochistan are being eliminated. We are receiving reports, we are receiving data which shows that the Pakistani state is eliminating Baloch people, approximately 8-10 people become victims of enforced disappearances every week. Some 3-4 people are being killed by Pakistani state forces, who were kidnapped".The Baloch have been fighting against the forceful occupation of their land by Pakistan.

Mengal further said, "Since 1948, we have a political conflict with the state of Pakistan. We are against the annexation of our land by Pakistan on the basis of religion. So, the Baloch have stood for that and they are fighting over that".He laid stress on urgent intervention by the international human rights body to save the lives of Baloch people.

The Baloch Voice Association also held a discussion on the prevailing situation in Balochistan in which Baloch activists and human rights activists from Europe participated.

A group of Baloch activists held a protest here asking the United Nations' Human Rights Council to intervene and stop the 'genocide' in Balochistan. Also read: Sindh, Baloch and Pashtuns protest against Pakistan Army atrocities outside UNHRC The demonstration held during the ongoing 43rd session of the UN Human Rights Council was organised by the Baloch Voice Association.

A group of Baloch activists held a protest here asking the United Nations' Human Rights Council to intervene and stop the 'genocide' in Balochistan. Also read: Sindh, Baloch and Pashtuns protest against Pakistan Army atrocities outside UNHRC The demonstration held during the ongoing 43rd session of the UN Human Rights Council was organised by the Baloch Voice Association. The activists were seen holding banners with slogans--'Balochistan is bleeding', 'Free Balochistan' and 'Stop enforced disappearances'. Also read: Pakistan army threatened to kill my son, says activist Gul Bukhari Neela Quadri Baloch, President of the World Baloch Women's Forum said, "It`s almost 70 years United Nations is here, and it`s almost 70 years that Pakistan has occupied Balochistan and they are responsible for our genocide. "A large number of political activists, students and intellectuals have gone missing in Balochistan, allegedly abducted up by the security forces. Activists say many of those abducted were killed and their mutilated bodies were found in isolated places."They are using rape as a tool of oppression. They are taking our women, they are torturing them. This is the time the UN should understand and feel a responsibility to come to Balochistan and intervene," Neela Quadri Baloch said."UN should monitor what`s going on in Balochistan. You can`t walk in Balochistan ten meters without a check post. So, we are living in occupied land, we are living in a hell that is made by the state of Pakistan. There should be an intervention by the UN in Balochistan and there should be fact-finding missions because there are mass graves, more than 40,000 people are missing. Our whole nation is in Great Depression", said the woman activist. Munir Mengal, the president of the Baloch Voice Association said, "The people in Balochistan are being eliminated. We are receiving reports, we are receiving data which shows that the Pakistani state is eliminating Baloch people, approximately 8-10 people become victims of enforced disappearances every week. Some 3-4 people are being killed by Pakistani state forces, who were kidnapped".The Baloch have been fighting against the forceful occupation of their land by Pakistan. Mengal further said, "Since 1948, we have a political conflict with the state of Pakistan. We are against the annexation of our land by Pakistan on the basis of religion. So, the Baloch have stood for that and they are fighting over that".He laid stress on urgent intervention by the international human rights body to save the lives of Baloch people. The Baloch Voice Association also held a discussion on the prevailing situation in Balochistan in which Baloch activists and human rights activists from Europe participated.

Geneva: Activists protest, seek UN intervention to prevent Pak-inflicted genocide in Balochistan

The Baloch National Movement (BNM) on Sunday held a protest in Berlin, the capital of Germany, in solidarity with the protesting families of Baloch missing persons, who have forcibly disappeared in Pakistan. The protest was attended by a large number of Baloch community members living in Germany.&nbsp;

During the protest, pamphlets on missing Baloch were distributed and locals were informed about the worst human rights violation in Balochistan carried out by Pakistani security forces, where thousands of Baloch political and social activists became the victims of enforced disappearances. Asghar Ali Baloch, General Secretary of Baloch National (BNM) (Germany Zone), addressed the audience and said that Pakistan has been violating human rights in Balochistan since 1948.&nbsp;

"One of these crimes is the enforced disappearance of people. Since the occupation, Pakistan has imprisoned thousands of Baloch in dark torture cells and their whereabouts are unknown", he said.&nbsp;

He added, "Pakistan is violating its own laws as well as international laws because according to the constitution of Pakistan with respect to human rights anyone, who is arrested to be produced in court within 24 hours. However, none of the thousands of missing Baloch has been produced, like Dr Muhammad Baloch, Ramzan Baloch and thousands of other Baloch."&nbsp;

"We want to send a message to the world that Pakistan is an undemocratic country and occupier. It has been oppressing us since its occupation but the so-called civilised countries are ignorant about ground realities what has been happening in Balochistan. They are involved in economic and military trade with Pakistan. Multimillion arms deal of Germany and other European countries with Pakistan cast doubt in our mind about their so-called self-claim as defenders of human rights", he said.&nbsp;

The President of the Baloch National Movement (Germany Zone), Hammal Baloch, said that the Baloch nation had always resisted the oppressors by blocking the path of the oppressors, whether they are Nosherwan or Seljuk, but Baloch had not accepted anyone's supremacy, and bravely had resisted them."&nbsp;

The Baloch National Movement (BNM) on Sunday held a protest in Berlin, the capital of Germany, in solidarity with the protesting families of Baloch missing persons, who have forcibly disappeared in Pakistan.

The Baloch National Movement (BNM) on Sunday held a protest in Berlin, the capital of Germany, in solidarity with the protesting families of Baloch missing persons, who have forcibly disappeared in Pakistan. The protest was attended by a large number of Baloch community members living in Germany. During the protest, pamphlets on missing Baloch were distributed and locals were informed about the worst human rights violation in Balochistan carried out by Pakistani security forces, where thousands of Baloch political and social activists became the victims of enforced disappearances. Asghar Ali Baloch, General Secretary of Baloch National (BNM) (Germany Zone), addressed the audience and said that Pakistan has been violating human rights in Balochistan since 1948. "One of these crimes is the enforced disappearance of people. Since the occupation, Pakistan has imprisoned thousands of Baloch in dark torture cells and their whereabouts are unknown", he said. He added, "Pakistan is violating its own laws as well as international laws because according to the constitution of Pakistan with respect to human rights anyone, who is arrested to be produced in court within 24 hours. However, none of the thousands of missing Baloch has been produced, like Dr Muhammad Baloch, Ramzan Baloch and thousands of other Baloch." "We want to send a message to the world that Pakistan is an undemocratic country and occupier. It has been oppressing us since its occupation but the so-called civilised countries are ignorant about ground realities what has been happening in Balochistan. They are involved in economic and military trade with Pakistan. Multimillion arms deal of Germany and other European countries with Pakistan cast doubt in our mind about their so-called self-claim as defenders of human rights", he said. The President of the Baloch National Movement (Germany Zone), Hammal Baloch, said that the Baloch nation had always resisted the oppressors by blocking the path of the oppressors, whether they are Nosherwan or Seljuk, but Baloch had not accepted anyone's supremacy, and bravely had resisted them."

Baloch in Germany hold protest over forced disappearances in Pakistan 

Amid the growing atrocities against the minority communities of Pakistan, PML-N vice president Maryam Nawaz has asked Prime Minister Imran Khan to speak to the relatives of the Baloch missing persons, who are protesting in Islamabad against the various human rights violations, including the issue of enforced disappearances.&nbsp;

"You are placed in the corridors of power," Maryam said on Wednesday, in a message to the Pakistan’s prime minister as she visited the protest site in the D-Chowk area, Geo News reported. &nbsp;

"It is your duty to listen to these people," Maryam added. This comes as protests are being held in Islamabad against forced abduction, torture, and harassment by the Pakistani agencies. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/dont-let-imran-khan-come-to-power-again-says-maryam-nawaz-at-a-rally-364054">Don't let Imran Khan come to power again, says Maryam Nawaz at a rally</a>

The protest is being held in a bid to highlight the plight of minority communities in the different regions of Pakistan. There is a long history of enforced disappearances in Balochistan. While thousands of Balochs have been abducted and disappeared since its illegal occupation, hundreds of others have been eliminated in the line with Pakistan's 'kill and dump' policy. Thousands still remain unaccounted for. Enforced disappearance has been used as a tool by the Pakistani state to silence the oppressed people of Balochistan since the very first day of its occupation. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/will-live-in-pakistan-wont-go-abroad-says-maryam-nawaz-363839">Will live in Pakistan, won't go abroad, says Maryam Nawaz</a>

While countless abductees have been killed, many of them are still facing inhumane torture in army secrets cells. Enforced disappearances have been an old stain on Pakistan's human rights record. &nbsp;

Despite the pledges of successive governments to criminalise the practice, there has been a very slow movement on legislation, which is equal to nothing, while people continue to be forcibly disappeared with impunity. &nbsp;

Amid the growing atrocities against the minority communities of Pakistan, PML-N vice president Maryam Nawaz has asked Prime Minister Imran Khan to speak to the relatives of the Baloch missing persons, who are protesting in Islamabad against the various human rights violations, including the issue of enforced disappearances.

Amid the growing atrocities against the minority communities of Pakistan, PML-N vice president Maryam Nawaz has asked Prime Minister Imran Khan to speak to the relatives of the Baloch missing persons, who are protesting in Islamabad against the various human rights violations, including the issue of enforced disappearances. "You are placed in the corridors of power," Maryam said on Wednesday, in a message to the Pakistan’s prime minister as she visited the protest site in the D-Chowk area, Geo News reported. "It is your duty to listen to these people," Maryam added. This comes as protests are being held in Islamabad against forced abduction, torture, and harassment by the Pakistani agencies. Also Read: Don't let Imran Khan come to power again, says Maryam Nawaz at a rally The protest is being held in a bid to highlight the plight of minority communities in the different regions of Pakistan. There is a long history of enforced disappearances in Balochistan. While thousands of Balochs have been abducted and disappeared since its illegal occupation, hundreds of others have been eliminated in the line with Pakistan's 'kill and dump' policy. Thousands still remain unaccounted for. Enforced disappearance has been used as a tool by the Pakistani state to silence the oppressed people of Balochistan since the very first day of its occupation. Also Read: Will live in Pakistan, won't go abroad, says Maryam Nawaz While countless abductees have been killed, many of them are still facing inhumane torture in army secrets cells. Enforced disappearances have been an old stain on Pakistan's human rights record. Despite the pledges of successive governments to criminalise the practice, there has been a very slow movement on legislation, which is equal to nothing, while people continue to be forcibly disappeared with impunity.

Maryam Nawaz asks Pak PM to speak to Baloch missing persons’ kin

The Baloch Human Rights Council (BHRC) has demanded the United Nations` intervention to ensure a fair probe into the death of activist Karima Baloch which is shrouded in mystery.

In a letter to the UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, BHRC`s Executive President Dr Naseer Dashti has asked UN chief to take cognisance of Karima`s "mysterious death" in Toronto. According to an official release by the BHRC, Guterres was urged to ask the Canadian authorities for conducting a thorough investigation considering the context in which Karima Baloch had fled Pakistan.

"The letter has drawn attention to the ongoing conflict between the Baloch and Pakistani state in which the Pakistani state establishment has responded violently to the genuine demands of the Baloch people to be provided with the rights and opportunities to live a dignified life according to their socio-cultural values," the release said.

The letter has drawn the attention of Guterres towards human rights violations in Balochistan and physical elimination of the Baloch in Pakistan and abroad.

The letter reminded the UN chief that repeated calls by the Baloch political parties and human rights organisations have failed to galvanise international intervention by the United Nations.

Over 50 activists, journalists and intellectuals from all around the world have expressed concern over the mysterious death of exiled Baloch activist Karima Baloch in Toronto and urged Canadian authorities to initiate a "high-level and thorough investigation" in the matter.

In a statement, Justice for Karima Baloch Collective, a collective of activists, journalists academics, intellectuals and concerned citizens, said that Baloch`s "mysterious death is alarming" because it is not the first one this year.

Karima Baloch`s dead body was found in Ontario Lake Toronto harbour front last Monday morning after being missing since Sunday afternoon.

The Baloch Human Rights Council (BHRC) has demanded the United Nations` intervention to ensure a fair probe into the death of activist Karima Baloch which is shrouded in mystery.

The Baloch Human Rights Council (BHRC) has demanded the United Nations` intervention to ensure a fair probe into the death of activist Karima Baloch which is shrouded in mystery. In a letter to the UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, BHRC`s Executive President Dr Naseer Dashti has asked UN chief to take cognisance of Karima`s "mysterious death" in Toronto. According to an official release by the BHRC, Guterres was urged to ask the Canadian authorities for conducting a thorough investigation considering the context in which Karima Baloch had fled Pakistan. "The letter has drawn attention to the ongoing conflict between the Baloch and Pakistani state in which the Pakistani state establishment has responded violently to the genuine demands of the Baloch people to be provided with the rights and opportunities to live a dignified life according to their socio-cultural values," the release said. The letter has drawn the attention of Guterres towards human rights violations in Balochistan and physical elimination of the Baloch in Pakistan and abroad. The letter reminded the UN chief that repeated calls by the Baloch political parties and human rights organisations have failed to galvanise international intervention by the United Nations. Over 50 activists, journalists and intellectuals from all around the world have expressed concern over the mysterious death of exiled Baloch activist Karima Baloch in Toronto and urged Canadian authorities to initiate a "high-level and thorough investigation" in the matter. In a statement, Justice for Karima Baloch Collective, a collective of activists, journalists academics, intellectuals and concerned citizens, said that Baloch`s "mysterious death is alarming" because it is not the first one this year. Karima Baloch`s dead body was found in Ontario Lake Toronto harbour front last Monday morning after being missing since Sunday afternoon.

Baloch rights council urges UN to ensure probe into activist's death

A few weeks back, Saudi Arabia forced Pakistan to repay one billion dollars. However, since Pakistan did not have the cash, the South Asian country turned towards its ally China and China bailed out Pakistan.

However, now, the Pakistan media has reported that several Chinese banks and financial institutions do not want to fund the China-Pakistan economic corridor anymore.

Reports say&nbsp;they are not happy with the “current state of affairs“. Chinese banks and institutions are showing no or limited interest in financing the much-criticised CPEC.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-chinese-lenders-reluctant-to-fund-cpec-323541/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Pakistan's Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi is said to have raised this issue during his recent visit to China.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/in-setback-for-imran-khan-govt-germany-refuses-to-modernise-pakistani-submarines-323027">Also read:&nbsp;In setback for Imran Khan govt, Germany refuses to modernise Pakistani submarines</a>

China uses its banks routinely to bankroll the&nbsp;Belt and Road projects.&nbsp;

The country's biggest and most powerful banks are state-run and so money is usually not a problem for China. This raises the question of why, then,&nbsp;are Chinese financiers looking away from CPEC.

The reason behind this is simple: it’s a loss-making enterprise.

The reports about this started coming last year. The first one was published in Wall Street Journal which stated that the Chinese projects for CPEC will run up to $62 billion and&nbsp;less than half of these are in progress. That's because&nbsp;Pakistan faces massive debt and Chinese stakeholders want Islamabad to guarantee repayments.

As the facts are laid out, the fears of these Chinese lenders are legitimate. You only extend a loan to those who can repay and Pakistan is in no condition to repay.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/exclusive-things-have-got-worse-in-balochistan-akbar-bugtis-grandson-appeals-for-global-support-323071">Also read:&nbsp;EXCLUSIVE| 'Things have got worse in Balochistan': Akbar Bugti's grandson appeals for global support</a>

In July this year, Pakistan received $1.8 billion in gross foreign loans. This is a jump of 263 per cent compared to the same month the last year.

In the last fiscal year, Pakistan received $13 billion dollars in foreign loans and a&nbsp;little more than $10 billion was utilized to repay maturing loans.

Pakistan is a country that’s surviving on loans as it borrows from one source to repay another lender. By now, any bank would have declared pakistan a non-performing asset. However, China seems to be holding on to its friendship.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-urges-taliban-leaders-to-start-peace-talks-323092">Also read:&nbsp;Pakistan urges Taliban leaders to start peace talks</a>

Now Chinese banks want nothing to do with Pakistan and it only hints towards the fact that they, too, are running short of cash.

A Bloomberg report claimed that&nbsp;China’s biggest banks will face a capital shortage of well over $900 billion&nbsp;by 2024.

China’s four largest lenders are facing a funding gap, namely&nbsp;The Industrial and Commercial bank of China, The Bank of China, The China Construction Bank, and The Agricultural Bank of China. All of these banks are important, not just for CHina but also for the global economy because if they fail, it could trigger a financial crisis.

According to a report, these four banks had a total shortage of $323 billion&nbsp;last year and&nbsp;this shortage can grow up to $940 billion by 2024.

It is not the just the lenders who are suffering. The combined earnings of more than 1,000 commercial Chinese banks has slumped&nbsp;by 24 per cent, according to one claim, and the reason is the same - bad loans.

China’s big state-owned banks are the hardest hit. Beijing has used these banks to salvage the economy and write cheques to buy heft. However, the Chinese banks and lenders can’t afford any more bad debts.

A few weeks back, Saudi Arabia forced Pakistan to repay one billion dollars. However, since Pakistan did not have the cash, the South Asian country turned towards its ally China and China bailed out Pakistan.

A few weeks back, Saudi Arabia forced Pakistan to repay one billion dollars. However, since Pakistan did not have the cash, the South Asian country turned towards its ally China and China bailed out Pakistan. However, now, the Pakistan media has reported that several Chinese banks and financial institutions do not want to fund the China-Pakistan economic corridor anymore. Reports say they are not happy with the “current state of affairs“. Chinese banks and institutions are showing no or limited interest in financing the much-criticised CPEC. Pakistan's Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi is said to have raised this issue during his recent visit to China. Also read: In setback for Imran Khan govt, Germany refuses to modernise Pakistani submarines China uses its banks routinely to bankroll the Belt and Road projects. The country's biggest and most powerful banks are state-run and so money is usually not a problem for China. This raises the question of why, then, are Chinese financiers looking away from CPEC. The reason behind this is simple: it’s a loss-making enterprise. The reports about this started coming last year. The first one was published in Wall Street Journal which stated that the Chinese projects for CPEC will run up to $62 billion and less than half of these are in progress. That's because Pakistan faces massive debt and Chinese stakeholders want Islamabad to guarantee repayments. As the facts are laid out, the fears of these Chinese lenders are legitimate. You only extend a loan to those who can repay and Pakistan is in no condition to repay. Also read: EXCLUSIVE| 'Things have got worse in Balochistan': Akbar Bugti's grandson appeals for global support In July this year, Pakistan received $1.8 billion in gross foreign loans. This is a jump of 263 per cent compared to the same month the last year. In the last fiscal year, Pakistan received $13 billion dollars in foreign loans and a little more than $10 billion was utilized to repay maturing loans. Pakistan is a country that’s surviving on loans as it borrows from one source to repay another lender. By now, any bank would have declared pakistan a non-performing asset. However, China seems to be holding on to its friendship. Also read: Pakistan urges Taliban leaders to start peace talks Now Chinese banks want nothing to do with Pakistan and it only hints towards the fact that they, too, are running short of cash. A Bloomberg report claimed that China’s biggest banks will face a capital shortage of well over $900 billion by 2024. China’s four largest lenders are facing a funding gap, namely The Industrial and Commercial bank of China, The Bank of China, The China Construction Bank, and The Agricultural Bank of China. All of these banks are important, not just for CHina but also for the global economy because if they fail, it could trigger a financial crisis. According to a report, these four banks had a total shortage of $323 billion last year and this shortage can grow up to $940 billion by 2024. It is not the just the lenders who are suffering. The combined earnings of more than 1,000 commercial Chinese banks has slumped by 24 per cent, according to one claim, and the reason is the same - bad loans. China’s big state-owned banks are the hardest hit. Beijing has used these banks to salvage the economy and write cheques to buy heft. However, the Chinese banks and lenders can’t afford any more bad debts.

Chinese banks' reluctance towards CPEC hint towards their funding gap

The 14th death anniversary of Balochistan's famous leader Nawab Akbar Bugti who was killed in 2006 will be marked on Wednesday. His death spurred a major crisis in Balochistan, Pakistan's largest province by size.&nbsp;

Balochistan has been in a simmer for a while now even as locals accuse Islamabad of draining the province of its resources. Balochistan is also key to China's mega infrastructure project China Pakistan Economic Corridor or CPEC.

The Journey of Nawab Akbar Bugti as a legislator being elected to the National assembly of Pakistan and later becoming the Chief minister and governor of Balochistan to someone who led a struggle against the Pakistani establishment highlights how things are on the ground in the province. Nawab Akbar Bugti was the Tumandar or the head of the Bugti tribe, someone who yields not only political support but moral too.&nbsp;

While the Pakistani army claimed that Bugti died after cave collapsed on him, this remains disputed. In 2012, a Pakistani court had issued arrest warrants against Pervez Musharraf, under whose tenure Bugti was killed.&nbsp;

Bugti was known to be someone who reached out to minorities in the province. He once said,'' Hindu and Sikhs have been living with us for many decades and they have become an integral part of our Bugti tribe. We have and will always have religious freedom for Hindus and Sikhs. If people of any other religion or community come to us, they'll have their freedom to practice their beliefs as well, just like we do in our Mosques, Mandir and Gurudawara.”

In fact, he gave shelter to several Hindu families when a military operation was underway in the province in 2005.

The 14th death anniversary of Balochistan's famous leader Nawab Akbar Bugti who was killed in 2006 will be marked on Wednesday. His death spurred a major crisis in Balochistan, Pakistan's largest province by size.

The 14th death anniversary of Balochistan's famous leader Nawab Akbar Bugti who was killed in 2006 will be marked on Wednesday. His death spurred a major crisis in Balochistan, Pakistan's largest province by size. Balochistan has been in a simmer for a while now even as locals accuse Islamabad of draining the province of its resources. Balochistan is also key to China's mega infrastructure project China Pakistan Economic Corridor or CPEC. The Journey of Nawab Akbar Bugti as a legislator being elected to the National assembly of Pakistan and later becoming the Chief minister and governor of Balochistan to someone who led a struggle against the Pakistani establishment highlights how things are on the ground in the province. Nawab Akbar Bugti was the Tumandar or the head of the Bugti tribe, someone who yields not only political support but moral too. While the Pakistani army claimed that Bugti died after cave collapsed on him, this remains disputed. In 2012, a Pakistani court had issued arrest warrants against Pervez Musharraf, under whose tenure Bugti was killed. Bugti was known to be someone who reached out to minorities in the province. He once said,'' Hindu and Sikhs have been living with us for many decades and they have become an integral part of our Bugti tribe. We have and will always have religious freedom for Hindus and Sikhs. If people of any other religion or community come to us, they'll have their freedom to practice their beliefs as well, just like we do in our Mosques, Mandir and Gurudawara.” In fact, he gave shelter to several Hindu families when a military operation was underway in the province in 2005.

Nawab Akbar Bugti's death anniversary: How Baloch leader’s killing rocked Pakistan

Baloch Human Rights Council (BHRC) on Friday said it is outraged by the cold-blooded murder of Hayat Baloch, a 25-years-old student, at the hands of the Pakistani military in Turbat, Balochistan.

The BHRC called the international community to intervene to stop the "bloodthirsty" Pakistani military from wreaking havoc in Balochistan.

Baloch was killed in cold blood by the Frontier Corps (FC) of Pakistan in Balochistan's Turbat town. The killing sparked unprecedented protests with people gathering in thousands across Balochistan and other parts of Pakistan and abroad.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/baloch-liberation-army-targets-pakistan-and-chinese-assets-319810">Baloch Liberation Army targets Pakistan and Chinese assets</a>

The BHRC said the FC soldiers killed innocent Baloch to avenge the attack on Pakistan soldiers by Baloch insurgents in Aapsar area of Turbat."

On August 13, the Frontier Corps soldiers came under attack by Baloch insurgents in Aapsar area of Turbat. The retaliating FC soldiers when failed to locate the attackers, they conveniently seized Hayat Mirza from a nearby date farm, where he had gone to assist his parents with farming," the BHRC said in a statement.

According to local sources, the FC personnel forcibly dragged Hayat Mirza from the farm to a roadside. He was pushed to the ground, blindfolded with his mother`s scarf, and his hands were tied up.

Hayat was not given a chance to explain his innocence or the right to ask the reason for the treatment he received. Consequently, he was severely beaten and murdered after being shot multiple times. Hayat`s helpless and traumatised parents were forced to watch the unfortunate fate of their son.

"We in the BHRC see Hayat`s murder as a consequence of Pakistan's colonial rule in Balochistan, which has consistently inspired and shaped the policies of its military establishment against the Baloch people, one of which is the physical elimination of the cream of Baloch society that with time has intensified as a result of the inaction and silence of the state judiciary, and the concerned international human rights bodies," the statement said.

"Balochistan is suffering a severe humanitarian crisis, having been in the throes of conflict for the past two decades, and a large part of its young population has been the victim of enforced disappearances and extrajudicial killings. Thousands of them have fled to different countries in recent years," it added.

The state judiciary remains under tight military control while the provincial government of Balochistan acting as the shameful subject of the military establishment has maintained its silence on this outrageous crime, the BHRC noted.

The members of the legislative bodies in Pakistan are so helpless that they cannot do anything to address the human rights challenges in Balochistan or to bring legislative reforms except for mere occasional words of condemnation of such incidents that do not deliver results, it added.

The BHRC said it is high time those countries who stand for human rights must come forward and put a resolution in the UN Human Rights Council.

"Lives in Balochistan are increasingly at risk, with their vulnerabilities and desperation increasing. The United Nations including the international community must respond in an equally serious manner and intervene to stop the bloodthirsty Pakistani military from wiping out the cream of Baloch society," the statement read.

"It is high time those countries who stand for human rights must come forward and put a resolution in the UN Human Rights Council to send a fact-finding mission to Balochistan to investigate the gross violations of human rights as they did in the case of Venezuela, and subsequently, make the military officials accountable for their crimes against humanity in Balochistan," it added.

Baloch Human Rights Council (BHRC) on Friday said it is outraged by the cold-blooded murder of Hayat Baloch, a 25-years-old student, at the hands of the Pakistani military in Turbat, Balochistan.

Baloch Human Rights Council (BHRC) on Friday said it is outraged by the cold-blooded murder of Hayat Baloch, a 25-years-old student, at the hands of the Pakistani military in Turbat, Balochistan. The BHRC called the international community to intervene to stop the "bloodthirsty" Pakistani military from wreaking havoc in Balochistan. Baloch was killed in cold blood by the Frontier Corps (FC) of Pakistan in Balochistan's Turbat town. The killing sparked unprecedented protests with people gathering in thousands across Balochistan and other parts of Pakistan and abroad. Also read: Baloch Liberation Army targets Pakistan and Chinese assets The BHRC said the FC soldiers killed innocent Baloch to avenge the attack on Pakistan soldiers by Baloch insurgents in Aapsar area of Turbat." On August 13, the Frontier Corps soldiers came under attack by Baloch insurgents in Aapsar area of Turbat. The retaliating FC soldiers when failed to locate the attackers, they conveniently seized Hayat Mirza from a nearby date farm, where he had gone to assist his parents with farming," the BHRC said in a statement. According to local sources, the FC personnel forcibly dragged Hayat Mirza from the farm to a roadside. He was pushed to the ground, blindfolded with his mother`s scarf, and his hands were tied up. Hayat was not given a chance to explain his innocence or the right to ask the reason for the treatment he received. Consequently, he was severely beaten and murdered after being shot multiple times. Hayat`s helpless and traumatised parents were forced to watch the unfortunate fate of their son. "We in the BHRC see Hayat`s murder as a consequence of Pakistan's colonial rule in Balochistan, which has consistently inspired and shaped the policies of its military establishment against the Baloch people, one of which is the physical elimination of the cream of Baloch society that with time has intensified as a result of the inaction and silence of the state judiciary, and the concerned international human rights bodies," the statement said. "Balochistan is suffering a severe humanitarian crisis, having been in the throes of conflict for the past two decades, and a large part of its young population has been the victim of enforced disappearances and extrajudicial killings. Thousands of them have fled to different countries in recent years," it added. The state judiciary remains under tight military control while the provincial government of Balochistan acting as the shameful subject of the military establishment has maintained its silence on this outrageous crime, the BHRC noted. The members of the legislative bodies in Pakistan are so helpless that they cannot do anything to address the human rights challenges in Balochistan or to bring legislative reforms except for mere occasional words of condemnation of such incidents that do not deliver results, it added. The BHRC said it is high time those countries who stand for human rights must come forward and put a resolution in the UN Human Rights Council. "Lives in Balochistan are increasingly at risk, with their vulnerabilities and desperation increasing. The United Nations including the international community must respond in an equally serious manner and intervene to stop the bloodthirsty Pakistani military from wiping out the cream of Baloch society," the statement read. "It is high time those countries who stand for human rights must come forward and put a resolution in the UN Human Rights Council to send a fact-finding mission to Balochistan to investigate the gross violations of human rights as they did in the case of Venezuela, and subsequently, make the military officials accountable for their crimes against humanity in Balochistan," it added.

Baloch Human Rights Council outraged over murder of Hayat Baloch by Pakistani forces

Human rights violations&nbsp;in the&nbsp;Balochistan&nbsp;province of&nbsp;Pakistan&nbsp;have drawn concern in the international community.

The violations have taken place during the ongoing&nbsp;Balochistan conflict&nbsp;between&nbsp;Baloch nationalists,&nbsp;terrorists and the government of Pakistan&nbsp;over the rule of&nbsp;Balochistan. It is&nbsp;the largest province by land area of modern-day Pakistan and&nbsp;also the most oppressed.

The high handedness of the Pakistani army in Balochistan is well-known but&nbsp;the true extent of the persecution was revealed&nbsp;in 2017.

Also read- <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/balochistan-pakistans-land-of-mass-graves-206973">Balochistan: Pakistan's land of mass graves</a>

The country's battle for&nbsp;independence lasted&nbsp;well over 60 years. It has&nbsp;hundreds of unmarked graves with&nbsp;the&nbsp;military's stamp on forced disappearances.&nbsp;

In 2016, Pakistan was accused of dumping nearly one thousand dead bodies of activists and other Balochis. A&nbsp;revelation that had exposed large scale extrajudicial killings in Balochistan.

When a WION&nbsp;correspondent travelled deep inside Balochistan, a family narrated to us how they lost one of their own.

Nasrullah Baloch, a member of this family&nbsp;narrated&nbsp;how the Pakistani state goes after dissenters.&nbsp;Balochistan is the largest&nbsp;and most resource-rich province of Pakistan. Yet,&nbsp;the people of this region live in dire conditions.

75 per cent of Balochistan's population remains rural. The literacy rate of the province stands at 41 per cent and urban unemployment stands at over 12 per cent.

The injustice against the Balochis is well documented. Over the years, Pakistan has systematically suppressed development in Balochistan.

While squeezing out the natural resources from the region, Pakistan opened the doors of Balochistan for China, allowing the dragon to build infrastructure. It&nbsp;threatens to push out the Balochi population from their own lands.

The high-handed attitude of Pakistan has forced many Balochis to pick up arms.&nbsp;In February, Balochistan witnessed three attacks that killed nearly 30 people.&nbsp;The Baloch Liberation Army with a cadre of six thousand&nbsp;has emerged as the most prominent group which is targeting Pakistani and Chinese assets and people in Pakistan.

Human rights violations in the Balochistan province of Pakistan have drawn concern in the international community. The violations have taken place during the ongoing Balochistan conflict between Baloch nationalists, terrorists and the government of Pakistan over the rule of Balochistan.

Human rights violations in the Balochistan province of Pakistan have drawn concern in the international community. The violations have taken place during the ongoing Balochistan conflict between Baloch nationalists, terrorists and the government of Pakistan over the rule of Balochistan. It is the largest province by land area of modern-day Pakistan and also the most oppressed. The high handedness of the Pakistani army in Balochistan is well-known but the true extent of the persecution was revealed in 2017. Also read- Balochistan: Pakistan's land of mass graves The country's battle for independence lasted well over 60 years. It has hundreds of unmarked graves with the military's stamp on forced disappearances. In 2016, Pakistan was accused of dumping nearly one thousand dead bodies of activists and other Balochis. A revelation that had exposed large scale extrajudicial killings in Balochistan. When a WION correspondent travelled deep inside Balochistan, a family narrated to us how they lost one of their own. Nasrullah Baloch, a member of this family narrated how the Pakistani state goes after dissenters. Balochistan is the largest and most resource-rich province of Pakistan. Yet, the people of this region live in dire conditions. 75 per cent of Balochistan's population remains rural. The literacy rate of the province stands at 41 per cent and urban unemployment stands at over 12 per cent. The injustice against the Balochis is well documented. Over the years, Pakistan has systematically suppressed development in Balochistan. While squeezing out the natural resources from the region, Pakistan opened the doors of Balochistan for China, allowing the dragon to build infrastructure. It threatens to push out the Balochi population from their own lands. The high-handed attitude of Pakistan has forced many Balochis to pick up arms. In February, Balochistan witnessed three attacks that killed nearly 30 people. The Baloch Liberation Army with a cadre of six thousand has emerged as the most prominent group which is targeting Pakistani and Chinese assets and people in Pakistan.

Baloch Liberation Army targets Pakistan and Chinese assets

For over 11 years relatives of people who disappeared in the murk of a separatist insurgency in southwestern Pakistan have gathered outside the Press Club of Quetta wanting to know who took their fathers, husbands and sons.

The daily sit-in protest in the provincial capital of Balochistan began on June 28, 2009 after a doctor, Deen Muhammad, was abducted by "unknown men".

Relatives suspect Muhammad, like many other missing ethnic Balochs, was snatched by Pakistani security forces hunting separatists, who for decades have waged a campaign for greater autonomy or independence.

Sometimes less than a dozen join the daily protest, other days many more, but Muhammad`s two daughters have been among the regulars since they were eight and ten years old.

"Our little hands were holding pictures of our father back then; now we have grown up and we still have no clue if he is alive," Sammi Baloch, now 21, told Reuters by telephone from Quetta.

Even when the weather is too extreme in Quetta to hold protest, a sit-in is observed by&nbsp; 
Balochs in front of the press club in Karachi, Pakistan`s largest city and a melting pot for different ethnic groups.

The insurgency in Balochistan, a sparsely populated, mountainous, desert region bordering Afghanistan and Iran has sometimes waned and sometimes intensified over the years.

But for all the durability of the Baloch struggle, the conflict has seldom drawn international attention. It grabbed headlines however, in late June when a group of young Baloch militants launched an attack on the Pakistan Stock Exchange in Karachi.

On Tuesday, three soldiers were killed and eight wounded in an area known for attacks by Baloch fighters. But beyond giving the grinding casualty toll, the veil of secrecy over the conflict is seldom lifted, and foreign journalists are often discouraged from visiting Balochistan.

Multiple calls, texts and emails to Pakistan`s human rights ministry, the military and Balochistan`s provincial government, seeking comment for this story went unanswered.

The military did issue a statement last year sympathising with families of missing Balochs, while saying that some may have joined militant groups and "not every person missing is attributable to the state."

Pakistan has repeatedly blamed India for fanning militancy in Balochistan, a charge New Delhi has consistently denied.

MORE MISSING

Last month, the Balochistan National Party (BNP) quit Prime Minister Imran Khan`s parliamentary bloc, frustrated by unfulfilled promises to address Baloch grievances including the festering issue of the disappeared.

When he led the BNP into an alliance with Khan`s coalition two years ago, Akhtar Mengal gave the government a list of 5,128 missing persons.

Since then over 450 of the people on the list have been found or returned to their families, but during the same period Mengal says another 1,800 were reported to have disappeared.

"If you cannot recover people, at least stop disappearing more people," said Mengal.

Another Baloch party - set up in the months prior to the 2018 elections with backing from the military establishment, according political analysts - is in a coalition with Prime Minister Khan`s party at both federal and provincial level.

Balochistan Awami Party Senator Anwar-ul-Haq Kakar told Reuters the numbers of missing are "exaggerated".

But, Mama Qadeer, who heads a group called Voice for Baloch Missing Persons, keeps his own count.

"In last six months, the number of Baloch missing persons has risen," he told Reuters by telephone. His son disappeared a decade ago.

In February last year, Qadeer`s group handed a list of 500 missing to provincial officials. Since then nearly 300 have been returned to their homes, but 87 others disappeared in the first half of this year, according to the group.

CHINA RAISES STAKES

A federal commission set up nine years ago listed 6,506 cases of enforced disappearances nationwide by the end of 2019. Most came from the northwestern province of Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa.

Only 472 were registered from Balochistan. Advocacy groups say Balochistan`s number is far higher, pointing to difficulty in having cases accepted by the commission.

"There`s hardly a home in Balochistan that hasn`t had a relative or loved one picked up," Mohammad Ali Talpur, an aged activist who once fought alongside Baloch insurgents in the 1970s, told Reuters.

The conflict has a long, complex history, but since that time the stakes have risen as Balochistan`s wealth of copper, gold, gas and coal deposits caught China`s eye.

The prospects of Pakistan`s most reliable ally pouring in money excited successive governments, while fuelling Baloch resentment over how little would come their way.

Separatist militants have frequently targeted Chinese construction in Gwadar, a port on the Balochistan coast, near the entrance to the strategically-important Gulf.

And in 2018, the Balochistan Liberation Army launched an assault on the Chinese consulate in the southern port city of Karachi, killing four Pakistani police and civilians.

It was the most high profile attack by the group until June 29 this year, when its fighters attacked the stock exchange, again killing four people.

The attack came a day after hundreds of relatives of missing Balochs gathered in Quetta to mark the four thousandth day of their protest since the disappearance of Dr Muhammad.

For over 11 years relatives of people who disappeared in the murk of a separatist insurgency in southwestern Pakistan have gathered outside the Press Club of Quetta wanting to know who took their fathers, husbands and sons.

For over 11 years relatives of people who disappeared in the murk of a separatist insurgency in southwestern Pakistan have gathered outside the Press Club of Quetta wanting to know who took their fathers, husbands and sons. The daily sit-in protest in the provincial capital of Balochistan began on June 28, 2009 after a doctor, Deen Muhammad, was abducted by "unknown men". Relatives suspect Muhammad, like many other missing ethnic Balochs, was snatched by Pakistani security forces hunting separatists, who for decades have waged a campaign for greater autonomy or independence. Sometimes less than a dozen join the daily protest, other days many more, but Muhammad`s two daughters have been among the regulars since they were eight and ten years old. "Our little hands were holding pictures of our father back then; now we have grown up and we still have no clue if he is alive," Sammi Baloch, now 21, told Reuters by telephone from Quetta. Even when the weather is too extreme in Quetta to hold protest, a sit-in is observed by Balochs in front of the press club in Karachi, Pakistan`s largest city and a melting pot for different ethnic groups. The insurgency in Balochistan, a sparsely populated, mountainous, desert region bordering Afghanistan and Iran has sometimes waned and sometimes intensified over the years. But for all the durability of the Baloch struggle, the conflict has seldom drawn international attention. It grabbed headlines however, in late June when a group of young Baloch militants launched an attack on the Pakistan Stock Exchange in Karachi. On Tuesday, three soldiers were killed and eight wounded in an area known for attacks by Baloch fighters. But beyond giving the grinding casualty toll, the veil of secrecy over the conflict is seldom lifted, and foreign journalists are often discouraged from visiting Balochistan. Multiple calls, texts and emails to Pakistan`s human rights ministry, the military and Balochistan`s provincial government, seeking comment for this story went unanswered. The military did issue a statement last year sympathising with families of missing Balochs, while saying that some may have joined militant groups and "not every person missing is attributable to the state." Pakistan has repeatedly blamed India for fanning militancy in Balochistan, a charge New Delhi has consistently denied. MORE MISSING Last month, the Balochistan National Party (BNP) quit Prime Minister Imran Khan`s parliamentary bloc, frustrated by unfulfilled promises to address Baloch grievances including the festering issue of the disappeared. When he led the BNP into an alliance with Khan`s coalition two years ago, Akhtar Mengal gave the government a list of 5,128 missing persons. Since then over 450 of the people on the list have been found or returned to their families, but during the same period Mengal says another 1,800 were reported to have disappeared. "If you cannot recover people, at least stop disappearing more people," said Mengal. Another Baloch party - set up in the months prior to the 2018 elections with backing from the military establishment, according political analysts - is in a coalition with Prime Minister Khan`s party at both federal and provincial level. Balochistan Awami Party Senator Anwar-ul-Haq Kakar told Reuters the numbers of missing are "exaggerated". But, Mama Qadeer, who heads a group called Voice for Baloch Missing Persons, keeps his own count. "In last six months, the number of Baloch missing persons has risen," he told Reuters by telephone. His son disappeared a decade ago. In February last year, Qadeer`s group handed a list of 500 missing to provincial officials. Since then nearly 300 have been returned to their homes, but 87 others disappeared in the first half of this year, according to the group. CHINA RAISES STAKES A federal commission set up nine years ago listed 6,506 cases of enforced disappearances nationwide by the end of 2019. Most came from the northwestern province of Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa. Only 472 were registered from Balochistan. Advocacy groups say Balochistan`s number is far higher, pointing to difficulty in having cases accepted by the commission. "There`s hardly a home in Balochistan that hasn`t had a relative or loved one picked up," Mohammad Ali Talpur, an aged activist who once fought alongside Baloch insurgents in the 1970s, told Reuters. The conflict has a long, complex history, but since that time the stakes have risen as Balochistan`s wealth of copper, gold, gas and coal deposits caught China`s eye. The prospects of Pakistan`s most reliable ally pouring in money excited successive governments, while fuelling Baloch resentment over how little would come their way. Separatist militants have frequently targeted Chinese construction in Gwadar, a port on the Balochistan coast, near the entrance to the strategically-important Gulf. And in 2018, the Balochistan Liberation Army launched an assault on the Chinese consulate in the southern port city of Karachi, killing four Pakistani police and civilians. It was the most high profile attack by the group until June 29 this year, when its fighters attacked the stock exchange, again killing four people. The attack came a day after hundreds of relatives of missing Balochs gathered in Quetta to mark the four thousandth day of their protest since the disappearance of Dr Muhammad.

Baloch families seek answers from Pakistan as more disappear amid insurgency

The Balochistan Liberation Army attacked the Pakistan stock exchange today. The group is known for targeting Chinese interests in Pakistan.

Gravitas: Balochistan Liberation Army targets Pak stock exchange

Chairman of Baloch National Movement (BNM) Khalil Baloch highlighted the case of Zakir Majeed, a student leader, who is in Pakistani torture cell since last 11 years, and said the policy of enforced disappearance is becoming a stimulus to declare Pakistan a terrorist state at the international level.

"Zakir Majeed has completed 11 years in Pakistani torture cells. Instead of discouraging the Baloch youth through abductions and torture to end politics, this policy is becoming a stimulus to declare Pakistan a terrorist state at the international level," Baloch tweeted.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-gets-international-aid-of-usd-15-billion-to-handle-covid-outbreak-307314">Also read|&nbsp;Pakistan gets international aid of USD 1.5 billion to handle COVID outbreak</a>

Zakir Majeed Baloch was enforcedly disappeared on 8th June 2009 along with two of his friends Waheed Baluch and Basit Baluch. Later Waheed and Basit were released while Zakir Majeed was kept in extrajudicial custody and till this day no one has any trace of him.

Pakistan`s establishment has long been criticised over its practice of enforced disappearances and extrajudicial killings by International bodies and local human rights organisations that dare to speak out on the issue.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/broken-promises-and-lavish-feasts-imran-khan-disappoints-people-of-pakistan-307176">Also read|&nbsp;Broken promises and lavish feasts: Imran Khan disappoints people of Pakistan</a>

According to the Commission of Inquiry on Enforced Disappearances, an entity established by the Pakistani government, about 5,000 cases of enforced disappearances have been registered since 2014. Most of them are still unresolved.

Independent local and international human rights organisations put the numbers much higher. Around 20,000 have reportedly been abducted only from Balochistan, out of which more than 2,500 have turned up dead as bullet-riddled dead bodies, bearing signs of extreme torture.

Before being elected as Prime Minister, Imran Khan had admitted in multiple interviews about the involvement of Pakistan`s intelligence agencies in enforced disappearances and extrajudicial killings and vowed to resign if he was unable to put an end to the practice, holding those involved responsible.

Chairman of Baloch National Movement (BNM) Khalil Baloch highlighted the case of Zakir Majeed, a student leader, who is in Pakistani torture cell since last 11 years, and said the policy of enforced disappearance is becoming a stimulus to declare Pakistan a terrorist state at the international level.

Chairman of Baloch National Movement (BNM) Khalil Baloch highlighted the case of Zakir Majeed, a student leader, who is in Pakistani torture cell since last 11 years, and said the policy of enforced disappearance is becoming a stimulus to declare Pakistan a terrorist state at the international level. "Zakir Majeed has completed 11 years in Pakistani torture cells. Instead of discouraging the Baloch youth through abductions and torture to end politics, this policy is becoming a stimulus to declare Pakistan a terrorist state at the international level," Baloch tweeted. Also read| Pakistan gets international aid of USD 1.5 billion to handle COVID outbreak Zakir Majeed Baloch was enforcedly disappeared on 8th June 2009 along with two of his friends Waheed Baluch and Basit Baluch. Later Waheed and Basit were released while Zakir Majeed was kept in extrajudicial custody and till this day no one has any trace of him. Pakistan`s establishment has long been criticised over its practice of enforced disappearances and extrajudicial killings by International bodies and local human rights organisations that dare to speak out on the issue. Also read| Broken promises and lavish feasts: Imran Khan disappoints people of Pakistan According to the Commission of Inquiry on Enforced Disappearances, an entity established by the Pakistani government, about 5,000 cases of enforced disappearances have been registered since 2014. Most of them are still unresolved. Independent local and international human rights organisations put the numbers much higher. Around 20,000 have reportedly been abducted only from Balochistan, out of which more than 2,500 have turned up dead as bullet-riddled dead bodies, bearing signs of extreme torture. Before being elected as Prime Minister, Imran Khan had admitted in multiple interviews about the involvement of Pakistan`s intelligence agencies in enforced disappearances and extrajudicial killings and vowed to resign if he was unable to put an end to the practice, holding those involved responsible.

Enforced disappearance policy is becoming a stimulus to declare Pakistan as terrorist state: Baloch leader

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