Balochistan Interior Minister Says Militants Responsible if Sacred Sites Are Damaged

Quetta: Balochistan Interior Minister Mir Ziaullah Langove has said that if any sacred place is damaged during security incidents, responsibility lies with the militants whose activities have created the prevailing security situation.

Speaking to the BBC about the recent damage to a mosque and madrassa during clashes in Mastung, Langove said mosques are among the holiest places on earth and that no Muslim would intentionally seek to harm them.

He said that when security forces or civilians come under attack, the ensuing exchange of fire involves heavy gunfire and shelling, making it difficult to determine which side’s fire caused damage to religious sites.

The minister argued that armed groups often launch attacks from areas close to populated settlements and highways, forcing security forces to respond. He added that if the forces do not take action, they are also criticized for failing to respond.

Meanwhile, the Balochistan Home Department’s media adviser, Babar Yousafzai, said the mosque and madrassa were not damaged by security forces but by the actions of militants belonging to banned organizations.