The recent surge in Baloch insurgent attacks has once again put Pakistan’s terrorism policies under scrutiny. Experts argue that Pakistan’s long-standing use of terror as a state policy has now turned against it, with insurgent groups launching deadly attacks on its own military forces.
Experts Criticize Pakistan’s Strategy
Retired Indian Army officer Major General GD Bakshi stated that Pakistan has “shot itself in the foot” by using terrorism as an instrument of state policy. Speaking to ANI, he remarked:
“Till now, Pakistan was exporting terror. Now, the very groups it nurtured are wreaking havoc within its borders.”
He emphasized that this crisis is Pakistan’s own doing and foreign nations cannot intervene.
“This is Pakistan’s fault, and they must face the consequences. What can India or any other country do?”
Pakistan’s Military Unprepared for Insurgency
Major General Dhruv C Katoch (Retd) criticized the Pakistan Army’s lack of preparedness, stating that it is struggling to counter growing insurgent attacks.
“The Pakistani military is still figuring out how to respond to the insurgency. They simply do not have the capability to defend every part of their territory. More attacks are inevitable.”
He suggested that the only way forward is for Pakistan to negotiate a political settlement with the Baloch people to prevent a full-scale rebellion.
“If Pakistan fails to reach a political settlement, the insurgency could escalate into a serious confrontation where the Pakistani army might suffer heavy losses.”
Balochistan’s Neglect and Rising Rebellion
Foreign affairs expert Robinder Sachdeva highlighted Pakistan’s failure in addressing Balochistan’s grievances, leading to further unrest.
“Pakistan has exploited Balochistan’s rich natural resources while ignoring its development. It has outsourced its mineral wealth to China while suppressing the local population, leading to growing resentment.”
Recent Attacks Expose Pakistan’s Vulnerability
The Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) has intensified its attacks on Pakistani forces.
- March 17: A terrorist attack on a Frontier Corps (FC) convoy in Noshki, Balochistan, killed five people, including three FC personnel and two civilians. Security forces responded by eliminating four terrorists, including a suicide bomber.
- Jaffar Express Hijacking: Just a week prior, the BLA hijacked a train carrying over 450 passengers, including 200 security personnel. The group later claimed to have killed 214 hostages.
The BLA justified its actions by blaming Pakistan’s refusal to negotiate, stating that the military ignored their 48-hour ultimatum.
