Balochistan Under Fire: A New Crisis Unfolding in Pakistan?
Balochistan is once again at the center of Pakistan’s political turmoil, with tensions escalating in recent weeks. The province, which has long been a battleground for political and ethnic disputes, is witnessing a new wave of unrest.
The recent Jafar Express train accident has fueled speculation about a deep-rooted conflict between Balochs and Punjabis. Many believe that this incident, like previous ones, is being used to further divide communities rather than address real security concerns.
Adding to the unrest is the ongoing issue of Baloch missing persons, a matter that gained significant attention after Mahrang Baloch emerged as a leading voice for justice. Her nomination for the Nobel Peace Prize highlighted the plight of many families searching for their loved ones. However, rather than opening dialogue, the situation took a turn for the worse, leading to more arrests and crackdowns.
Mahrang Baloch’s recent arrest has introduced a new and controversial narrative. Social media platforms have been flooded with misleading claims, including allegations that she is not a woman but a transgender individual. This propaganda attempt reminds many of the tragic events of 1971 when, during the Bangladesh Liberation War, people were subjected to humiliating identity checks based on religious and ethnic biases—an event that ultimately led to the separation of Bangladesh from Pakistan.
As tensions rise, a critical question remains: Is Balochistan heading toward a similar fate? The need for open dialogue, fair representation, and justice is more urgent than ever to prevent history from repeating itself.