Language, Knowledge and Reasoning Must Be Used to Counter Terrorism: Anwaar-ul-Haq Kakar

QUETTA: Former prime minister and Senator Anwaar-ul-Haq Kakar has said that the fight against terrorism requires not only security measures but also the effective use of language, reasoning, knowledge, communication and intellectual capabilities.

Speaking to more than 6,150 students participating from 21 different locations in a special session under the ISPR Summer Internship Programme 2026, Kakar discussed a range of issues, including Balochistan’s history, separatist narratives, terrorism, human rights, national security and the role of young people.

Addressing the students, Senator Kakar said violence was a fundamental tool of the political strategy adopted by separatist and terrorist organisations in Balochistan. He stressed the need to effectively confront militants affiliated with Fitna al-Hindustan and completely dismantle their networks.

He said attacks targeting passengers of the Jaffar Express, civilians in Musakhail and workers in Turbat constituted serious violations of human rights and the right to life.

Kakar emphasized the importance of preparing young people intellectually and academically to counter extremist and anti-state narratives.

He said the struggle against terrorism must also make effective use of the power of language, argument, knowledge, communication and intellectual abilities to challenge extremist narratives and strengthen society’s resilience against terrorism.