The recent suicide attack targeting a school bus in Khuzdar has shocked the nation. The fact that among the five victims were three innocent children makes the atrocity especially horrific. No cause — political, ideological, or nationalist — can justify the murder of non-combatants, particularly children. This tragic incident underscores the urgency of adopting a comprehensive and balanced approach to address the long-standing insurgency and instability in Balochistan.
While no group has claimed responsibility, the military’s media wing and the Prime Minister’s Office have pointed to Indian proxies as the perpetrators of the attack. Reports from ISPR suggest that Indian-sponsored groups have been active in the region, and recent counterterrorism operations in KP and Balochistan reportedly neutralized a dozen militants linked to such networks. If Pakistan has credible evidence of foreign involvement, it must pursue the matter diplomatically and present its case to the international community. This approach would be in stark contrast to India’s reaction following the Pahalgam incident, where it hastily accused Pakistan without offering concrete proof, escalating regional tensions unnecessarily.
However, while confronting external threats is essential, it must not distract from the internal complexities of the Balochistan conflict. The province has long-standing grievances, ranging from political marginalization and lack of economic development to human rights abuses and absence of local empowerment. Separatist elements have exploited these issues, but branding all dissenting voices as ‘anti-national’ or ‘Indian agents’ only deepens the divide and alienates those who may still believe in dialogue and democracy.
A sustainable solution to Balochistan’s unrest must involve a dual strategy — one that combines a strong counterterrorism component with a robust political engagement plan. Those responsible for acts of terror must face justice. Yet, without addressing the political and socio-economic roots of the insurgency, military actions alone will not bring lasting peace.
The state must open avenues for reconciliation by engaging with Baloch nationalist parties and civil society actors who are willing to work within the framework of the Constitution. Development initiatives must be inclusive, transparent, and centered on local participation. Education, healthcare, and job opportunities must reach all corners of the province to build trust in the state.
Balochistan cannot be pacified through force alone. What is required is sagacity, foresight, and the political will to move beyond reactionary measures. Only through a holistic approach that values both security and dialogue can Pakistan hope to turn the page on decades of unrest and ensure a peaceful, united future for Balochistan.
