No Insurgency in Balochistan, Only So-Called Separatist Movements: CM Bugti
Balochistan Chief Minister Mir Sarfaraz Bugti has dismissed the notion of an insurgency in the province, calling it a “so-called separatist movement” fueled by foreign interference and anti-state propaganda. He emphasized that the provincial government is strengthening governance, education, and secu-rity efforts to ensure peace and stability.
‘No Insurgency, Only Propaganda’
Addressing participants at the 17th National Workshop, CM Bugti said that claims of an insurgency in Balochistan are misleading and deliberately propagated to divide Pakistan.
“The enemies want to divide Pakistan into pieces like a cake,” he warned, adding that the term “angry Baloch” was coined to justify violence and mislead the public.
He stressed that “a person who commits violence at gunpoint is not angry but a terr0rist,” rejecting the narrative that unrest in the province represents genuine public dissent.
Foreign Interference and Disinformation
Highlighting external involvement, Bugti accused India’s intelligence agency RAW of backing separatist elements in Balochistan. He said these groups, while aligning with foreign agendas, seek to harm Pakistan’s sovereignty.
“Separatists are happy with India but want to hurt Pakistan,” he remarked, noting that social media propaganda has been used to widen the gap between the youth and the state.
Bugti pointed out that the first refugee camp established in Balochistan in 2002 contributed to the rise of terr0rism in the region. He emphasized that the fight against such elements is not solely the military’s responsibility but a joint effort of the entire nation.
Engaging Youth and Strengthening the State
The Chief Minister underscored his government’s efforts to reconnect with the province’s youth through universities and public forums.
“The distance between the youth and the state has been increased through propaganda, but we are addressing it through dialogue and inclusion,” Bugti said.
He reiterated that the state of Pakistan is above politics and that unity is essential in combating divisive ideologies. “The Balochistan government has taken the war against terr0rism as its responsibility,” he added.
Strengthening Counterterrorism and Governance
Bugti revealed that the Counter Terrorism Department (CTD) is being enhanced to improve operational effectiveness, with Rs100 million allocated to strengthen its capacity. He acknowledged that distinguishing between allies and enemies in certain areas remains a challenge, but praised recent successful operations against hostile elements.
He also highlighted administrative reforms restoring the state’s authority — including the appointment of Assistant Commissioners in 24 sub-districts after a 12-year gap — ensuring stronger local governance.
Development and Progress in Key Sectors
Outlining development achievements, Bugti said that 3,200 inactive schools and 164 basic health centers have been reactivated, reflecting tangible progress in education and healthcare. These reforms, he said, were central to rebuilding public trust and reinforcing state institutions across the province.
He reiterated that balanced development and governance reforms are key to countering separatist narratives. “Nothing will be achieved through a futile war,” Bugti said, urging those misled by propaganda to embrace dialogue and nation-building.
Balochistan’s Way Forward
Concluding his remarks, CM Bugti reaffirmed that Balochistan’s stance against terr0rism is “categorical and clear.” He said the provincial government remains committed to peace, inclusivity, and progress.
“The Baloch people are being pushed into a dead end, but we are determined to bring progress, peace, and unity to our province,” he stated.
Bugti’s remarks underscore his government’s focus on combining security stabilization, youth engagement, and institutional reform to strengthen national unity and foster sustainable development in Balochistan.
