ISLAMABAD: Lawmakers from the ruling coalition on Monday strongly condemned the recent wave of militant attacks in Balochistan, asserting that terrorism in the province is not linked to deprivation or rights issues but is driven by foreign-backed extremist networks.
According to security sources, terrorists affiliated with India-sponsored Fitna al-Hindustan carried out coordinated attacks across 12 towns in Balochistan over the weekend, targeting civilians in Quetta, Mastung, Nushki, Dalbandin, Kharan, Panjgur, Tump, Gwadar and Pasni.
Balochistan Chief Minister Sarfraz Bugti confirmed that at least 31 civilians and 17 security personnel were martyred in the attacks, which were carried out by the outlawed Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA).
In response, security forces conducted extensive counter-terrorism operations, eliminating 22 more militants and raising the total number of terrorists killed over the past three days to 177.
Addressing the National Assembly, Defence Minister Khawaja Asif rejected what he termed a “baseless narrative of deprivation” in the province and said the state would not engage in negotiations with terrorists.
He stated that militant groups operating in Balochistan were receiving support from across the border in Afghanistan and were being backed by India through proxy networks.
Highlighting recent operations, Asif said those neutralised were linked to criminal and smuggling syndicates rather than any political or nationalist movements.
Separately, Prime Minister’s Adviser on Political Affairs Rana Sanaullah told the Senate that terrorists must be condemned without ambiguity, adding that the writ of the state remained intact across Balochistan.
He said hostile elements were attempting to destabilise Pakistan through targeted violence and vowed firm action against all those involved.
Meanwhile, the Senate unanimously passed a resolution condemning the terrorist attacks, paying tribute to the security forces and calling for swift justice against those responsible.