Balochistan Has Been in Conflict for Two Decades, Need for Multi-Dimensional Strategy: Dr Abdul Malik Baloch
Balochistan Has Been in Conflict for Two Decades, Need for Multi-Dimensional Strategy: Dr Abdul Malik Baloch
Quetta: President of the National Party and Member of the Balochistan Assembly Dr Abdul Malik Baloch has said that Balochistan has remained in a state of conflict for the past two decades, adding that neither the state nor the armed groups appear willing to engage in dialogue.
Speaking in the Balochistan Assembly during the budget debate, Dr Baloch said that global geopolitical conditions have changed after recent international conflicts, and Pakistan’s foreign policy has, for the first time, played a positive role in helping de-escalate tensions.
He said that the 1973 Constitution envisions Pakistan as a federal democratic state, but in practice democracy, federalism, and local governance structures have weakened. He alleged that only state institutions remain functional while Parliament, judiciary, and media have been increasingly constrained.
Dr Baloch criticized proposals to create new provinces and roll back the 18th Constitutional Amendment and the NFC Award, warning that such moves could further destabilize the federation. He said any attempt to alter the Constitution without consensus would deepen political tensions.
He argued that Balochistan’s core issue is the recognition of the people’s right to self-governance, saying that authority should rest with elected representatives. He stressed that citizens increasingly feel alienated from the state due to lack of political empowerment and resource control.
Highlighting economic concerns, he said Balochistan’s coastal fisheries generate billions in export revenue, yet financial returns do not benefit the province. He questioned why industrial accounts are not maintained within Balochistan to reflect its true contribution to the national economy.
Dr Baloch noted that the province has remained in a prolonged state of unrest, stating that neither meaningful negotiations nor a political settlement has been achieved. He called for a multi-dimensional strategy to address the crisis, including industrial development and improved governance.
He said that despite major infrastructure projects under CPEC, no industrial zones have been established in the province. He also criticized delays in the completion of the Kachhi Canal project, saying insufficient water supply has severely damaged agriculture.
He stressed the need to strengthen key sectors such as fisheries, livestock, and agriculture through comprehensive planning and effective policy implementation.
The National Party leader also raised concerns over missing persons, extrajudicial killings, and deteriorating security conditions, particularly in areas such as Turbat and Panjgur. He said citizens no longer feel safe, and traders’ vehicles are being targeted.
Dr Baloch criticized the handling of development funds, alleging that federal input on provincial schemes has been minimal. He also questioned the allocation of funds for security in areas already affected by instability.
He further called for reforms in fiscal arrangements, stating that the federal government must reduce unnecessary expenditures and ensure fair distribution of resources among provinces.
Expressing concern over governance issues, he called for stronger accountability mechanisms, elimination of corruption, and improved public service delivery. He emphasized that effective governance requires both authority and institutional capacity at the provincial level.
Dr Baloch also thanked the provincial leadership for implementing some of his recommendations in the health sector, including the provision of a cath lab facility. However, he criticized delays in salaries for contractual doctors in medical colleges across the province.
He demanded the release of detained employees, approval of key legislative reforms, and greater transparency in administrative expenditures.
Concluding his speech, Dr Abdul Malik Baloch said that the National Party rejects both the federal and provincial budgets, calling them inadequate and disconnected from the realities of Balochistan.
