PM, army chief vow to crush attempts to destabilise Balochistan

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Syed Asim Munir have reiterated their commitment to preventing hostile forces from destabilising Balochistan’s peace and development, pledging to crush any such attempts with full force.

According to Express News, the National Action Plan’s Apex Committee meeting was held in Quetta on Thursday, chaired by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. The meeting was attended by Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Muhammad Ishaq Dar, Chief of Army Staff General Asim Munir, Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, the Commander of Balochistan Corps, and senior civil, police, intelligence, and military officials.

At the start of the meeting, participants offered prayers for the victims of recent terrorist attacks in Balochistan and expressed solidarity with their families. The timely response and bravery of the security forces, which prevented further loss of innocent lives, were also commended.

"The recent terrorist incidents have saddened the entire nation, and there will be no leniency for terrorists who spill the blood of innocent people," Sharif said.

The prime minister emphasised that every possible measure would be taken for the development and prosperity of Balochistan. The committee strongly condemned the recent terrorist attacks and agreed to intensify ongoing efforts against terrorism in the province.

It was decided to further strengthen intelligence sharing among security forces and law enforcement agencies. Additionally, agreement was reached to enhance the capacity of the Counter-Terrorism Department, police, Levies, and other relevant departments.

Sharif and General Munir reiterated their stance that no external forces would be allowed to disrupt Balochistan’s peace and development.

The committee also resolved to bring the planners, instigators, facilitators, and perpetrators of terrorist attacks to justice and ensure the safety and security of citizens at all costs. The prime minister distributed compensation cheques to the families of those killed in recent terrorist incidents and assured them of the state’s full support and protection.

In his remarks following the Apex Committee meeting, the prime minister stressed the importance of collective efforts to maintain peace in Balochistan. "We will eradicate terrorism from the country at all costs, and there will be no question of showing any leniency to terrorists," he said.

"There will be no leniency towards enemies of the state, and while negotiations are necessary with those who respect Pakistan’s flag and Constitution, no dialogue can take place with enemies of the country."

Sharif also underscored the need to appoint capable and talented officers in Balochistan, noting that security concerns had previously deterred some officers from serving in the province.

He outlined a new policy under which officers from the 48th Common Training Programme will be assigned to Balochistan for one year, followed by officers from the 49th batch for a year and a half.

Officers posted in Balochistan will receive special incentives, including four air tickets for their families every three months and three additional points based on performance reviews.