For over a year now, Pakistan's resource-rich but extremely backward province of Balochistan has witnessed clashes between armed Balochs and the Pakistan army, culminating in a massive military operation in the third week of December. Islamabad says the provocation for its action has come from tribal chiefs and nationalists who are opposed to development and have consequently created a perilous law and order situation. Not true, argues the other side, justifying their insurrection on the grounds that they have been denied their legitimate share in the income generated from the province's gas reserves; that the province has been excluded from the country's political process; that the slogan of development is just a pretext for the Pakistan army to expand its presence in the province.
As Islamabad continues to unsheath its iron fist, and accuses India of fomenting trouble in the province, chairperson of the Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP)
As Islamabad continues to unsheath its iron fist, and accuses India of fomenting trouble in the province, chairperson of the Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP)
Asma Jahangir
visited the affected areas. Her team was fired upon during the conduct of its investigations. She returned from Balochistan to demand an immediate ceasefire and permission to the International Red Cross to visit the area where, she claimed, a war-like situation prevails. Excerpts from an interview with
Amir Mir:
How did the Balochistan problem start?
Why did the HRCP decide to send a team to Balochistan?
On the way to the troubled areas of Balochistan, your convoy was attacked. Do you have any idea who the assailants were?
What are the HRCP's observations about the situation in Balochistan?
What do you say to the government's accusation that India is fomenting unrest in Balochistan?
Should the Indian government have reacted to the situation in Balochistan?
What's the solution to Balochistan?
Are you satisfied with the state of women and minorities' rights in Pakistan?
