Counter-terrorism toll

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Bloodshed is once again reported in the restive provinces of Balochistan and Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa. The point of consolation, however, is that the security forces have fought back with bravery, killing more than a dozen terrorists, as they embraced martyrdom of 18 personnel. A couple of well-choreographed counter-terrorism operations in Kalat and Harnai districts saw unscrupulous elements take some battering, and their hideouts were dismantled. However, in a similar sordid affair four levies, and a private driver, lost their lives as their convoy was ambushed in Dera Ismail Khan. These incidents correspond to the spike in terror activities for more than a year, especially with the intrusion of disgruntled elements from across the western frontiers.

The pattern of terror activities in both the provinces confirms some vested agenda at work. While the prime targets have been the security forces and Chinese engineers involved in CPEC projects, it inevitably has links to share with geopolitics. An estranged dispensation in Kabul, and the presence of covert elements in Balochistan are cases in point that operate through their abettors such as BLA and Majeed Brigade, apart from instigating a number of local elements. This means the counter-terrorism episodes must be more coordinated, and intelligence-based operations are the way to go to quell the evil in the bud.

At the same time, Pakistan is ripe with socio-political unrest and it has acted as a catalyst in furthering terrorism. The earlier an industrious effort is made to win over the locals and bring them into the national mainstream, the curse of militarism can be addressed in a better manner. It goes without saying that disparity in development, and the denial of rights to the locals has been at the root of revulsion, and it can only be overcome through a political solution.

While Balochistan and K-P, along with the merged districts, have seen a lot of military operations, it's time to orchestrate an indigenous approach and put the locals at the vanguard in decision-making. That will surely help securitise the regions in a better manner.