Balochistan CM urges militants to lay down weapons, reintegrate into mainstream

Balochistan Chief Minister Mir Sarfraz Bugti cautioned on Friday that no group would be allowed to impose its ideology through violence, reaffirming his government's dedication to peaceful dialogue grounded in the constitution. Addressing a flag-raising ceremony to commemorate Pakistan's 79th Independence Day, Bugti appealed to armed factions to disarm and rejoin mainstream society, stating that while state doors are open to political resolution, talks with those targeting civilians are impossible.

He emphasized that successful conflict resolutions historically stem from organized political dialogue rather than militant coercion. Bugti expressed worry over young people being entangled in an endless cycle of unrest by insurgent groups, asserting that safeguarding the state's authority and public life are non-negotiable. The provincial administration, alongside the military and local police, vowed to maintain law and order, reaffirming that state control will remain unassailable across the region.

The chief minister identified youth empowerment as a key priority for his cabinet, detailing efforts to create merit-based education and employment opportunities, aiming to strengthen bonds between the youth and state institutions. Reflecting on Pakistan's history since 1947, Bugti noted the country's transformation into a regional power and nuclear-armed state, citing widespread celebrations across the country as evidence of local patriotism, and stressing that Balochistan is the federation's core identity.

He honored civilian victims and security personnel who sacrificed their lives for peace, concluding by praising Pakistan's armed forces for their ranks. Earlier, seven individuals, including three Anti-Terrorism Force (ATF) personnel, were injured when unidentified gunmen attacked the convoy of Balochistan Home and Tribal Affairs Minister Mir Ziaullah Langau in Mastung; the minister remained unharmed.

According to a report by the Centre for Research and Security Studies, the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) and its affiliates have carried out 181 terrorist attacks in Balochistan in 2026, causing 708 civilian and military casualties. The Pakistani military and security agencies have reportedly killed 618 terrorists through intelligence operations and have intensified efforts against insurgents in recent weeks.