CM Sarfraz Bugti Declares “Pakistani Identity First,” Activates De-Radicalization Center in Quetta

Quetta (Daily Qudrat): Chief Minister Mir Sarfraz Bugti, speaking during a Point of Order in the Balochistan Assembly, emphasized that the primary identity of every citizen is Pakistani, followed by regional or ethnic affiliations. He stated that the state will ensure the protection of its citizens and announced that a De-Radicalization Center in Quetta has been made fully operational, providing detainees with all possible facilities, including family visits.

CM Bugti warned that state funds will not be allowed to finance anti-state activities under any circumstances, condemning the recruitment of youth from universities into terrorist networks. He highlighted the threat posed by organized groups operating from abroad, enticing young people toward extremism.

The address came in response to a Point of Order by Dr. Abdul Malik Baloch, who raised concerns over the functionality of Pasni Fish Harbor institutions and the inclusion of finance department officers on boards of mother language academies. Dr. Baloch also revealed that four to five National Party workers were killed in Jhao, Gishkor, and Kogdan within the past week, calling for official attention.

CM Bugti acknowledged the National Party’s sacrifices in the fight against terrorism and reiterated the Assembly’s condemnation of incidents in Panjgur and Turbat. He stressed the government’s support for promoting mother languages while ensuring that state resources are not misused to incite anti-state sentiments. Highlighting austerity measures, he noted that 14 billion PKR were saved last year, 435 vacant positions in the CM House were reallocated, and a 12 billion PKR health insurance scheme was launched for government employees, generating an additional 6 billion PKR in savings.

Addressing the issue of missing persons, CM Bugti explained that the De-Radicalization Center will provide a permanent solution, ensuring that detainees’ families are informed within 12 hours, weekly visits occur during a three-month custody, and extensions require High Court approval under the supervision of a civilian SP. Drawing from personal experience, he shared that he had lost 300 people in past conflicts and had himself been a missing person. He condemned groups like Bashir Zeb for causing the deaths of 190 Baloch citizens, emphasizing the government’s commitment to providing opportunities for youth while preventing them from being exploited by extremist networks.

CM Bugti also offered dialogue for resolving disputes but stressed that demands made at gunpoint would not be accepted. He affirmed that the government remains committed to citizen protection and improved governance. The Balochistan Assembly session was subsequently adjourned until Tuesda