Is Islamabad Losing Control Over Balochistan and PoK?
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Synopsis
The recent U.S. designation of the Balochistan Liberation Army as a terrorist group has led to rising tensions in both Balochistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. As protests erupt and violence escalates, Pakistan finds itself grappling with a dual-front crisis that threatens its stability. Explore the unfolding challenges faced by Islamabad.
Key Takeaways
- The U.S. has labeled the BLA a terrorist organization, posing challenges for Pakistan.
- Violent incidents are increasing in both Balochistan and PoK.
- Public discontent is rising due to neglect and exploitation of resources.
- The Pakistani military is under pressure to address the growing unrest.
- Protests in PoK signal a call for freedom from Pakistani control.
New Delhi, Aug 14 (NationPress) Pakistan has achieved a diplomatic milestone as the U.S. has officially designated the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) as a terrorist organization. The Majeed Brigade has also been recognized as an alias under this classification.
While Pakistan celebrates this development, Indian analysts suggest it may exacerbate issues for Islamabad. Observations indicate a spike in violent incidents in Balochistan, with the situation in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) being equally dire.
Pakistan faces a significant challenge from a separatist movement in the resource-rich region of Balochistan. The BLA continues its fight for an independent Balochistan, accusing the Pakistani government of exploiting local resources. With the terror designation and Field Marshal Asim Munir taking pride in it, the BLA's actions may intensify.
According to Islam senator Kamran Murtaza, conditions in Balochistan have deteriorated significantly. Internet access has been restricted for weeks, contributing to an increasingly precarious security landscape. In response to rising threats, the Pakistani government has cut off internet, water, and electricity to the region.
Indian intelligence reports indicate that the pressure is mounting on the Pakistani military. Groups in both Balochistan and PoK are likely to adopt more aggressive stances, leading to a chaotic situation.
The U.S. designation is anticipated to incite the BLA further, complicating matters for the Pakistani military. Munir believes that securing a minerals deal with the U.S. while obtaining the BLA's designation may have been a strategic move. Nonetheless, Indian agencies warn that the scenario is poised to worsen, suggesting the U.S. may face its own BLA complications, similar to China's experiences.
The plight in PoK mirrors that of Balochistan, with residents expressing feelings of neglect and resorting to protests against the Pakistani establishment.
This week, the Pakistan Army struggled to manage a large crowd advocating for freedom from Pakistan. Complaints about a lack of employment, infrastructure, and basic amenities have fueled these demonstrations, resulting in military intervention as tensions escalated.
Indian officials assert that Pakistan is grappling with identical challenges in Balochistan and PoK. The treatment of the populace is marked by disdain; resources are extracted for the benefit of major cities in Pakistan, while locals remain deprived. Corruption within the Pakistani Army and their oppressive actions further exacerbate public discontent.
Similar to Balochistan, residents of PoK lament that the mineral wealth and hydropower in their region are not distributed among them, benefiting only those in Punjab.
The Pakistani administration employs a consistent strategy across both regions, aiming to keep them economically backward to maintain control. Although this approach has yielded results for a time, public anger is surfacing. In Balochistan, the military has faced significant challenges, while in PoK, unrest could spiral into extreme violence.
Point of View
My perspective remains steadfastly aligned with national interests. The unfolding situation in Balochistan and PoK showcases systemic issues stemming from neglect and exploitation. While Pakistan's military grapples with growing dissent, it is crucial for the international community to remain aware of the humanitarian implications in these regions.
NationPress
09/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Balochistan Liberation Army?
The Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) is a separatist group fighting for an independent Balochistan, accusing the Pakistani government of resource exploitation.
Why has the U.S. designated the BLA as a terrorist organization?
The U.S. designated the BLA as a terrorist organization due to its involvement in violent activities aimed at achieving independence for Balochistan.
What is the situation in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir?
Residents of Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) have expressed feelings of neglect and have protested against the Pakistani establishment for lack of basic amenities.
How is the Pakistani military responding to the unrest?
The Pakistani military has struggled to manage protests in both Balochistan and PoK, with reports of violent confrontations and increased security measures.
What are the implications of the U.S. designation for Pakistan?
The U.S. designation of the BLA as a terrorist organization could lead to heightened violence and complicate the Pakistani military's efforts to maintain control in these regions.
