QUETTA: A gathering of political and religious leaders, tribal elders, and civil society members in Balochistan raised serious concerns about the province’s deteriorating law and order situation. Despite an annual security expenditure of Rs 80 billion, the region continues to face instability, which the attendees attributed to the lack of genuine representation in the provincial assembly.
Organized by Jamaat-i-Islami (JI) Balochistan and chaired by Maulana Hidayatur Rehman, the meeting criticized the federal government and influential quarters for denying the province control over its resources, a right granted by the 18th constitutional amendment. The participants called for security forces to return to their barracks and for more local autonomy.
The group expressed concerns over the high unemployment rate, especially in the Makran region, where the closure of borders with Iran has left over three million people without jobs. They argued that Balochistan is being treated as a “colony” with its agreements repeatedly violated.
The tribal elders emphasized the need for genuine dialogue between Balochistan’s elected officials, tribal leaders, and the federal government to address constitutional issues. They called for an end to political interference and the return of governance to the province’s elected representatives. Additionally, they demanded the federal government halt “forced control” over resources such as Reko Diq, gas, and coal deposits, and annul illegal contracts. A proposal was made to set up a commission to track the wealth extracted from the province.
The gathering also condemned the interference of security forces in tribal affairs, which has fostered widespread resentment. The group called for local law enforcement, such as the Levies force and local police, to handle law and order, rather than the military.
Concerns were also raised regarding enforced disappearances, particularly of young people, and the government’s lack of trust in the judiciary. The participants rejected the closure of borders and the division of tribes on either side, warning that tribes might take independent actions if the borders remain closed. They also opposed illegal land allotments to “non-locals” and called for their cancellation. Furthermore, the control of Balochistan’s coastline and the activities of the “trawler mafia” were highlighted as major issues.
The meeting concluded with a call for unity among Balochistan’s ethnic groups and the adoption of the term “Balochistani” to describe all residents, including those in Quetta. A committee will be formed to implement the agreed-upon actions and lead further consultations with tribal communities across the province. A delegation will also be sent to negotiate with the federal government and other stakeholders, with plans for a grand tribal convention in Quetta.
