New Delhi, Sep 8 — The situation in Balochistan is deteriorating rapidly, with the Pakistan Army accused of unleashing widespread violence on civilians under the guise of counterterrorism. Reports suggest that over 900 forced disappearances have been recorded in recent months, while scores have been killed in army operations.
The Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA), which has opposed the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) and protested the exploitation of the region’s mineral resources, has been a prime target. The BLA argues that while Balochistan is rich in natural wealth, its people see little benefit. Following the US designation of the BLA as a terrorist outfit, the Pakistan Army has intensified its offensive. However, intelligence sources claim civilians are being equally targeted, raising fears of a looming genocide.
Pakistan’s security crisis has drawn the attention of both China and the United States. Beijing, frustrated with repeated attacks on its nationals and infrastructure by the BLA and Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), recently told Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif that there would be no fresh funding for the proposed CPEC-2 project unless Pakistan raised its own resources. China has also sought details of Islamabad’s minerals deal with Washington, expressing its own interest in Balochistan’s reserves.
Officials note that Pakistan is unable to guarantee security for either US or Chinese projects, as both the BLA and TTP continue to mount strong resistance. Despite this, the army has deployed drones, helicopters, and ground troops in operations against the local population.
Indian agencies warn that human rights violations are set to escalate, as Islamabad struggles with growing mistrust among Baloch communities and mounting financial dependence on foreign powers. With minerals deals and foreign investments at stake, analysts fear the Pakistan Army is prioritizing control of Balochistan over the survival of its people.
