Bugti pledges support for train attack victims

Condemns propaganda by students on state scholarships abroad

QUETTA:

Balochistan Chief Minister Mir Sarfraz Bugti has strongly condemned elements who incite violence, hatred, and unrest while sitting among the public, describing them as more dangerous than banned organizations.

Addressing the media after visiting families affected by the recent Shuttle Train attack at Chaman Phatak, the Chief Minister said such elements deliberately try to mislead the youth. He also expressed concern over certain individuals studying abroad on government expenses who are actively promoting anti-state narratives.

Bugti made the remarks after offering Eidul Azha prayers and visiting the homes of those affected by the tragic attack. He assured the grieving families that neither the government nor the people of Balochistan would leave them alone in this hour of grief.

"The martyrs of this incident are heroes of the entire nation. We are indebted to the sacred blood of our martyrs who sacrificed their lives for the safety of the people and the homeland," he said.

The Chief Minister reaffirmed that the government would ensure complete compensation for the losses suffered by the victims of the Chaman Phatak Shuttle Train attack and would continue providing every possible assistance to the affected families.

Bugti noted that Balochistan has endured numerous incidents of terrorism and unrest over the past two decades. He said conditions in the province deteriorated after 2002, citing incidents such as the killing of Justice Nawaz Marri, which affected peace and stability. Despite these challenges, he praised the people of Balochistan for consistently demonstrating courage, patience, and resilience.

He highlighted that both Pakistan and Balochistan are now moving towards development, stability, and progress. On the international front, Pakistan is playing a responsible and pivotal role, particularly in efforts to resolve the Iran conflict. The wisdom and foresight of the country's political and military leadership have enhanced Pakistan's global image, he added.

The Chief Minister warned that in such positive circumstances, enemy forces, particularly India's intelligence agency RAW and its proxies, become active in attempts to create instability in Pakistan and Balochistan.

He revealed that security forces conducted successful operations the previous day, killing 10 to 12 terrorists. Bugti emphasized that security forces in Balochistan have never resorted to blind use of power. Unlike some other regions where entire areas are evacuated before operations, no such action has been taken in Balochistan, he said.

"Our security forces possess full capability and professional competence to deal with terrorists. However, fighting an intelligence-driven war in grey zones remains a major challenge, where distinguishing between friend and foe is not easy," he added.

He concluded by reiterating the government's firm resolve that the government, the people, and security institutions will continue their joint efforts until terrorism is completely eradicated and lasting peace is established in Balochistan.