COAS vows to purge Balochistan of 'Indian proxies'

Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir reaffirmed on Tuesday that comprehensive measures were under way to eliminate terrorist elements and restore lasting peace and stability in Balochistan, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) said in a statement.

During an interaction with participants of the 17th National Workshop Balochistan at the General Headquarters (GHQ), Field Marshal Asim underscored that Indian-sponsored proxies were engaged in spreading anti-people and anti-development narratives to fuel violence.

In a candid exchange and a vibrant question-and-answer session, the army chief reiterated Pakistan's commitment to regional peace and stability, describing Balochistan as the pride of Pakistan.

"Balochistan is the pride of Pakistan, endowed with highly vibrant, resilient and patriotic people who are its true wealth," the ISPR quoted the army chief as saying. He emphasised the need to realise the immense economic potential of the province for the benefit of its people.

The COAS also highlighted the federal and provincial governments' development initiatives aimed at uplifting the socio-economic landscape of Balochistan through a people-centric approach, the ISPR statement added.

Acknowledging the constructive role of civil society, particularly in engaging and empowering the youth, the army chief underlined their pivotal role in ensuring sustainable development and countering vested political agendas for the long-term prosperity of the province.

Field Marshal Asim Munir said that Indian-sponsored proxies – Fitna al Hindustan and Fitna al Khawarij – propagate anti-people and anti-development agendas with malicious intent to perpetrate violence. "All necessary actions are being taken to pursue these terrorists and rid the province of this menace."

He reiterated that while Pakistan seeks regional peace and stability, any violation of its territorial integrity, direct or indirect, would be met with a firm and decisive response to safeguard the lives and well-being of its citizens.