Baloch discontent

Mir Mohammad Ali Talpur

It is the Baloch resistance that now defines the social and political relations in Balochistan and people proudly indentify themselves with Sarmachars

Balochistan of today is in turmoil because it is a huge battleground; arrayed on one side are the freedom-seeking Baloch while, on the other are the state, the pro-establishment sardars and politicians, the fundamentalist forces, and those hungry for Balochistan’s resources.

The Baloch are under attack as they try to thwart designs on their land.

Inside Balochistan’s Ravaged Heartland

Harried by the Taliban on one side and the State on the other, Balochis remain hunted in their own land, reports QURRATULAIN ZAMAN

IF YOU want to know what is happening in Pakistan’s troubled province of Balochistan, just go to Sariab Road, in its capital, Quetta. Most people who live on its 6-km stretch are Baloch. For the Hazaras, Punjabis and Pashtuns — the other groups in this multi-ethnic city — Sariab Road is ilaqaghair  (a no-go area).

Force of arms A Baloch Marri tribesman carries a shell during clashes with Pakistani troops - PHOTO: GETTY IMAGES

After crossing the railway tracks that separate Sariab Road and Quetta Cantonment — or “Pakistan”, as the Baloch nationalists call it — the first thing you notice is an army tank to welcome you, next to a chauki or fortified post. Nationalist slogans and the emblems of banned militant organisations such as the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) and the Baloch Republican Army (BRA) adorn the walls: “We want freedom from Pakistan!” “No to Gwadar port!” “Red salute to the martyrs of Balochistan!”