ISLAMABAD: Caretaker Balochistan Information Minister Jan Achakzai dismissed the demands put forth by Baloch marchers as ‘unconstitutional’ and rejected allegations of mistreatment towards women or the use of water cannons in Islamabad.

In a press conference, Achakzai refuted claims of mistreatment against women and the use of water cannons, emphasizing that the Baloch marchers had made demands that went against constitutional norms.

He stressed that disarming state institutions would empower terrorists and accused certain elements of attempting to sow chaos ahead of the upcoming general elections.

Achakzai mentioned the surprise of disgruntled Baloch leaders’ surrender, citing the loyalty of every Baloch to Pakistan similar to Punjabis, Pathans, and Sindhis. He pledged efforts to foster peace in Balochistan.

Achakzai alleged that a group from Turbat marched to Islamabad with a specific agenda, seeking the release of terrorists. He claimed that while hundreds of non-Baloch individuals were brutally killed in Balochistan, no investigative commission was formed. He added that most missing persons were allegedly members of the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) either in India or hiding in mountains.

The government committee, constituted by Caretaker Prime Minister Anwaar-ul-Haq Kakar, engaged in talks with the Baloch protesters in Islamabad.

Committee members included Minister for Information and Broadcasting Murtaza Solangi, caretaker Federal Minister for Privatization Fawad Hassan Fawad, and Governor Balochistan Malki Wali Kakar. The meeting aimed to address concerns raised by the Balochistan protesters and fostered an atmosphere of open dialogue.

While Islamabad police had detained several Baloch protesters and used water cannons and baton charges to disperse the demonstration against enforced disappearances earlier, the meeting aimed to continue negotiations the following day, emphasizing a mutual commitment to reach a constructive resolution. Human rights organizations and analysts criticized the crackdown on Baloch protesters, denouncing the actions taken by the Islamabad police.

Published in The Daily National Courier, December, 25 2023

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