Balochistan on a Powder Keg, Peace Requires Economic Rights, Not Force: Maulana Hidayat-ur-Rehman Baloch

Balochistan on a Powder Keg, Peace Requires Economic Rights, Not Force: Maulana Hidayat-ur-Rehman Baloch

Quetta: Maulana Hidayat-ur-Rehman Baloch, Amir of Jamaat-e-Islami Balochistan and member of the provincial assembly, has expressed deep concern over the deteriorating situation in the province. He stated that the continuous closure of border routes has paralyzed trade and business, while government negligence has rendered major highways unsafe.

He warned that Balochistan currently stands “on a powder keg,” and lasting peace cannot be achieved through violence or the use of force. According to him, peace can only be ensured by providing the people with their economic rights, education, and employment opportunities. He called for the immediate reopening of border crossings such as Chaman and Gwadar to revive local economic activity.

Commenting on the political situation, Maulana Hidayat-ur-Rehman criticized the imposition of representatives through Form 47, stating that it has further worsened conditions. He stressed that problems will remain unresolved until genuine democracy and public representation are recognized.

He emphasized that the people of Balochistan have the primary right over the province’s resources, and only by including them equally in the national mainstream can the dream of prosperity be realized.

Furthermore, he appealed to philanthropists and welfare organizations to provide substantial financial assistance to the poor and lower-middle-class families during the Eid-ul-Fitr celebrations, ensuring they too can partake in the festive spirit amid rising inflation.