The chilling ambush of Jaffar Express on Tuesday by terrorists is a rude attention call, which reminds us of the reduction of the reduction of the state in Baluchistan.
At the last minute on Wednesday, the military confirmed that the anti -terrorism operation was over. But the fact that Bla’s terrorists could caress and kidnap the train that transports hundreds of passengers, as well as security men, in a desolate region is scary. Passengers have counted anguishing accounts about how they survived the traumatic experience. This is not the first time that this particular train has been indicated; The suicide bombing last year at Quetta’s train station also went to Jaffar Express. The fact is that in Baluchistan freedom of movement has been greatly reduced, with militants capable of kidnapping trains and blocking roads.
The time for topics is over. Baluchistan needs a solid security plan to ensure that its people can live in peace and continue their lives without fear of violence. Until now, the State has not fulfilled its duty on these positions. Although CT operations have been carried out in the province, resulting in the martyrdom of security men, long -term stability has not been achieved through these actions.
This means that the State must review its strategy. On the one hand, there can be no more non-go areas and unregistered spaces where militants handle feudos. The State must exercise its writing over the entire province. Secondly, the military has confirmed that the terrorists who attacked the Jaffar Express were in contact with “intellectual supporters and authors” in Afghanistan. Pakistan must take this issue at the diplomatic level with the Afghan Taliban regime, while other hostile states must also be warned that are not delivered in misadventures. There can be no commitment in internal security. The sophistication of the attack indicates that the separatists probably had support from experienced external players.
Beyond kinetic actions, there must be sincere efforts to address the root causes of Baluchistan’s misery that are exploited by separatists. These include forced disappearances, the terrible socio -economic indicators of the province and brake political activity. While no cause can justify the atrocities that are directed to civilians, many voices, including this document, have been raised by these problems for years. But those who do and execute policies in this country are not listening.
Security and the rule of law are essential. However, lasting peace in Baluchistan can only come when there is a good government, the people of the province have a part in their mineral wealth and other resources, and the genuine representatives of the inhabitants can carry the democratic process. Jaffar Express assault shows that time can be exhausted before the separatist insurgency extends even more. The rulers must now act to save Baluchistan.
Posted in Dawn, March 13, 2025
