Himanta praises Balochistan movement after Pahalgam terror strike
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Guwahati: Assam chief minister
Himanta Biswa Sarma
on Sunday criticised Pakistan over Balochistan amid the ongoing India-Pakistan tensions following the
Pahalgam terror attack
. He lauded the
Balochistan movement
aimed against the Pakistan govt and described it as an indigenous people's continuous pursuit of dignity, rights and autonomy.
He noted that the 2006 killing of tribal leader Nawab Akbar Bugti, a pivotal figure in Baloch politics and staunch advocate for Balochistan's rights, was a painful chapter that intensified calls for self-governance and accountability.
"The Baloch people, despite inhabiting a province rich in natural resources, have long struggled with underdevelopment and allegations of systematic exploitation by the central govt (referring to Pakistan). The killing of respected tribal leader Nawab Akbar Bugti in 2006 marked a particularly painful chapter, reigniting demands for self-determination and justice. Today, the Balochistan movement stands as a symbol of an indigenous people's enduring aspiration for dignity, rights, and control over their own destiny — a struggle marked by immense sacrifice, resilience, and an unbroken spirit for freedom," Sarma wrote in his 'X' handle.
He highlighted that sentiments of political exclusion, economic marginalisation and cultural oppression have triggered multiple uprisings across decades, particularly in 1958, 1962, 1973, and the early 2000s. Referring to historical events, Sarma said, "The Balochistan freedom movement traces its roots to the tumultuous events of 1947–1948, when the princely state of Kalat, representing much of what is today Balochistan, sought to maintain its sovereignty after the end of British colonial rule. Despite initial negotiations for autonomy, the region was forcibly annexed by Pakistan in March 1948, sowing deep resentment among the Baloch people."
Recent years saw increased violence in Balochistan with separatist groups alleging Pakistan govt's exploitation of natural resources. Growing unease also exists regarding Balochistan's security situation, including concerns about potential secession from Pakistan.
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