The Securitization of the Balochistan Conflict

On August 26, 2024, the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) carried out attacks in multiple areas, resulting in the deaths of more than 70 people. As a nation, we condemn this brutal violence, where a group of assailants checked passengers’ identity cards, and after identifying certain individuals, executed them. While the BLA targeted innocent civilians, the Baloch Yakjehti Committee, led by Mahrang Baloch, simultaneously staged peaceful protests against Pakistan. This contrast raises an important question: why do the Baloch people, in some cases, resort to violence or peaceful protests against the state?

To better understand this, we must first examine the concept of securitization, which plays a significant role in analyzing the Balochistan issue. Securitization refers to the process in which the public collectively agrees that an issue has become so critical that it requires urgent and extraordinary measures from the state. This concept, drawn from the Copenhagen School of Thought, divides issues into three categories:

1. Non-politicized: At this stage, the issue is not considered serious. As a result, the public remains largely indifferent, and the government either responds slowly or does not act at all.
2. Politicized: As the issue begins to affect the public, it moves to this stage. Here, the government recognizes the problem and engages in discussions to develop policies to address it.
3. Securitized: In the final and most critical stage, the issue is perceived as a significant and dangerous threat. The government must respond with immediate and extraordinary measures to resolve it.

Given the gravity of the situation in Balochistan, it is clear that the issue has now reached the securitized stage. Despite extensive suffering on the part of the Baloch people, the Pakistani government has yet to take meaningful steps to address their grievances. This calls for a deeper exploration of the core issues fueling the conflict.

Political representation is one of the most significant grievances in Balochistan. For decades, Balochistan has faced underrepresentation in Pakistan’s political system. With only 16 general seats and 4 women’s quota seats in the National Assembly, the province lags far behind major cities like Karachi and Lahore, which have much larger political representation. This disparity leaves the Baloch people feeling marginalized and unheard.

Another key factor driving unrest is the personal loss experienced by many Baloch families. Protesters, whether they choose peaceful or violent means, are often motivated by personal tragedies, including the disappearance of loved ones. This sense of injustice is compounded by the Baloch people’s deep-seated distrust of the establishment, which they accuse of abducting their people without cause.

Adding to these political and personal grievances are the economic and social challenges faced by the province. Despite being rich in natural resources, Baluchistan’s population remains deprived of basic necessities. For example, while Sui gas originates from Balochistan, many communities within the province still lack access to it. Even the 18th Amendment, specifically Article 173(2) of the 1973 Constitution, which entitles provinces to fifty percent of their resource revenue, has not been implemented effectively in Balochistan. This economic disparity continues to fuel anger and resentment among the Baloch people.

Moreover, the overwhelming military presence in the region further exacerbates tensions. Baloch citizens often feel as though they are living in a heavily policed state, with military checkpoints at frequent intervals. This constant surveillance fosters a sense of oppression and further alienates the local population.

To de-escalate the conflict, the government must shift its approach from military action to dialogue and trust-building. This begins with recognizing and acknowledging the mistakes of the past. Since partition, successive governments have relied heavily on military operations to manage the Balochistan issue. However, given the changing times and dynamics, it is now imperative for the government to adopt a new approach.

Negotiation and policy reform should be at the forefront of this new approach. By initiating meaningful dialogue with local Baloch leaders and stakeholders, the government can rebuild trust. Furthermore, addressing the root causes of the conflict through targeted policies will be essential. These measures should focus on economic development and resource sharing, cultural and ethnic recognition, and strengthening democratic institutions.