The total death count from the latest Balochistan train hijack is now 31, higher than the initial report of 25 fatalities. The victims include 23 soldiers, 3 employees of the railway department, and 5 passengers. The separatist Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) has taken responsibility for the attack.
After the response of the army to the attack, the BLA issued a statement claiming that they had killed all 214 hostages in their custody. But Pakistani authorities have previously accused the outfit of issuing exaggerated claims regarding such incidents.
“The Baloch Liberation Army had given the Pakistani army a 48-hour ultimatum to exchange prisoners of war, which was the last chance for the occupying army to save the lives of its personnel. However, Pakistan, displaying its traditional stubbornness and military arrogance, not only avoided serious negotiations but also turned a blind eye to the ground realities. As a result of this stubbornness, all 214 hostages have been executed,” the statement from BLA claimed.
Who is the BLA?
The Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) is the largest and strongest separatist movement in the area, waging a struggle for decades to achieve independence for Balochistan. The province is geopolitically important, mineral-rich, and where major China-initiated projects such as a port and large gold and copper mines are located.
Quest of Balochistan for Development
Balochistan, with an area covering 44% of Pakistan’s territory, is the least developed and poorest province of the country. Baloch residents and activists believe that the resources of the province flow mainly to wealthier provinces such as Punjab and Sindh, while Islamabad remains oblivious to its economic development and infrastructure.
Reaction of Pakistan and Current Conflict
The Pakistani army has recently intensified action against Baloch insurgent groups. However, raids by BLA and other separatist groups have persisted, targeting security officials, infrastructure, and government premises.
With the new escalation, relations between the government and Baloch separatists will likely be stretched further, prompting concerns about regional stability.
