Balochistan Politician Demands Fair Probe into Police Killings Amidst Ongoing Sit-in
Akhtar Mengal, chief of the Balochistan National Party (BNP-M), has demanded a transparent investigation into the killing of police officers in Ziarat, criticizing the government's inability to resolve ongoing violence. Speaking at a sit-in organized by the families of the martyred officers on Saturday, Mengal questioned the absence of an independent inquiry into the Ziarat attack and similar incidents, highlighting a perceived lack of faith in provincial institutions. He pointed to failed administrative experiments in Balochistan, such as the abolition and subsequent merger of the Levies force with the police, arguing that these measures have not provided lasting solutions. Mengal urged protesters to remain firm in their demands, questioning why citizens are forced to protest if the situation in Balochistan is truly normal. He contrasted Pakistan's lack of accountability for numerous tragedies with other nations where governments are held responsible even for single deaths. Mengal also alleged that rulers prioritize Balochistan's resources like gas and minerals over the welfare of its people, leading to the neglect of Baloch and Pashtun rights and lives. He further claimed that armed groups and unlawful tactics have historically been used to suppress the local population. The sit-in, which began on Saturday, entered its third day with government officials, including Home Minister Ziaullah Langove and Health Minister Bakht Kakar, engaging in negotiations with protesters. The demonstration involved seven bodies at Koila Phatak Chowk, while 12 others had been claimed by their families. A separate protest has been ongoing for six days in front of the Deputy Commissioner's office in Ziarat. The protests caused significant traffic disruptions in Quetta. Sakina Abdullah Khan, chairperson of the Balochistan women's wing of the Human Rights International Movement, condemned the violent incidents across various districts and called for impartial action from both federal and provincial governments, emphasizing the threat to peace and stability.
The persistent protests and demands for independent investigations in Balochistan highlight systemic governance challenges, particularly concerning accountability and resource allocation. The political discourse suggests a deep-seated distrust in state institutions and a perception that the central government prioritizes resource extraction over the well-being and rights of the local populace. This dynamic, exacerbated by historical grievances and alleged use of force, creates a cycle of unrest. Future stability will likely depend on addressing these core issues through inclusive governance, transparent resource management, and a demonstrable commitment to justice, rather than relying on temporary administrative fixes or security measures that fail to resolve underlying societal tensions. The current situation underscores the critical need for robust grievance redressal mechanisms that empower local communities and foster genuine dialogue.
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