CM calls for reflection on Baloch conflict

Balochistan Chief Minister, Mir Sarfraz Bugti, addressing the Balochistan High Court Bar Association on Thursday, called upon Baloch intellectuals to critically assess the outcomes of decades-long conflicts and guide the younger generation wisely. He questioned whether the prolonged armed struggle and separatist rhetoric had brought any prosperity or merely deepened the province's hardships.

Bugti recalled that the violence in the region escalated following the killing of Justice Nawaz Marri near a courthouse, which led to an FIR against Nawab Khair Bakhsh Marri and his sons. While Nawab Khair Bakhsh Marri surrendered to authorities, his sons chose exile, giving rise to what later became known as the "angry Baloch" movement. The chief minister asserted that this movement had only inflicted pain on the province and its people.

He acknowledged that despite various conspiracies, Pakistan's integrity has remained intact and its institutions have grown stronger. Bugti pointed out that Quetta is now peaceful, though remnants of separatist violence persist in distorted narratives. He criticized elements who once burned the national flag and promoted separatism but now pose as rights activists, calling this a betrayal of constitutional values.

The chief minister condemned the glorification of armed struggle and voiced concern over some lawyers providing legal support to those accused of terrorism, warning that such actions undermine the Constitution.

Highlighting the role of foreign interference, Bugti stated that hostile agencies have exploited the region to incite unrest in Balochistan. He urged the legal community to uphold the rule of law and become advocates for peace.

In a positive move, Bugti announced financial assistance of Rs50 million for the High Court Bar Association. He also introduced several welfare schemes for lawyers, including housing projects.