Balochistan CM Accuses Nationalist Parties of Conspiring Against State and Sabotaging Development

Quetta:In an interview with a private TV channel, Balochistan Chief Minister Mir Sarfraz Bugti has criticized nationalist parties in the province for their stance against the state, asserting that it is time for them to decide whether they stand with or against the government. He highlighted the widespread dissatisfaction among youth due to poor governance, noting that the Baloch Unity Committee (BYC) has failed to mobilize more than 30,000 to 40,000 people despite their claims.

Bugti alleged that the province faces significant challenges on three fronts: organized attempts to disrupt peace, extensive propaganda through social media, and mobilization of groups for seemingly peaceful protests which, according to him, are actually designed to undermine national projects like the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). He pointed to the recent Gwadar rally, where he claimed protesters were armed and displayed separatist symbols, as evidence of a larger conspiracy to sabotage CPEC’s second phase and disrupt an international delegation’s visit.

Bugti claimed that the Baloch Unity Committee has been using social media to incite violence and that recent protests have involved damage to public property and violent clashes. He emphasized that the government will take strict action against those responsible for such activities.

In his statements, Bugti also criticized the BYC’s insistence on holding the protest in Gwadar despite offers to relocate it to a more suitable location. He argued that the committee’s actions are part of a broader scheme to create unrest and challenge the state’s authority.

He noted that while the government has refrained from arresting women involved in the protests, some have used this to their advantage, and violent encounters have resulted in casualties, including the death of an FC soldier and severe injuries to others.

Bugti expressed frustration with what he described as the exploitation of the issue of missing persons for political gain and called on nationalist parties to clarify their position—whether they will align with the state or oppose it. He stressed the importance of upholding Balochistan’s traditions and ensuring that any legitimate grievances are addressed through constitutional means.