Balochistan package

Some nationalists are not impressed but it seems the centre today is making a genuine effort to address the ‘Balochistan problem’. Indeed, in a history of broken promises and outright oppression, what we are seeing under the current government is an initiative more sincere than others to bring the disillusioned in Balochistan back into the national mainstream. This is no mean task given what has transpired since the creation of Pakistan.

In short, Balochistan has been exploited ruthlessly by the federation. Boasting a surfeit of natural resources, it remains the most backward province in the country. Against this backdrop, promises of economic packages and debates in parliament may not readily convince those who have given up on the federation. Yes, cases have been withdrawn against some top politicians. What’s more, the centre has pledged that Balochistan’s disappeared will soon return home or be presented in court. The army is to be withdrawn from Sui and Kohlu, and there is talk of uplift programmes that will create jobs and, hopefully, allow the youth of Balochistan to see themselves as equal stakeholders in the republic.

But the proof of the package will be in its implementation. Islamabad has let Balochistan down on countless occasions and it is understandable that some in the province will reserve judgment until the centre has delivered. That said, it needs to be emphasised that opposition to ‘the package’ for opposition’s sake will serve neither the interests of the federation nor the people of Balochistan. Of course there is a trust deficit but the centre must be given a chance to come good on its promises. Calling the proposed measures ‘cosmetic’ when they are yet to be implemented is not a sign of maturity. The government must be given an opportunity to live up to its word. If it fails to do so, few will grudge criticism of Islamabad’s actions.

What has been put on the table so far are proposals aimed at political and economic change in Balochistan. Abolition of the concurrent list, greater provincial autonomy and increased control over natural resources are, in sharp contrast, matters of constitutional reform that remain pending as we speak. If and when they are moved, it will be interesting to see if the benefits of autonomy are reaped by ordinary people or the tribal chieftains who, as many claim, wish to keep the rural Baloch impoverished and illiterate in order to perpetuate their rule. Ultimately it will be up to the Baloch people to determine if they have been oppressed not just by the centre but also their feudal overlords.

Courtesy : DAWN NEWS