There should be no doubt that banned terrorist groups are striving hard to destabilise Pakistan. The modality adopted for coordinated attacks in Baluchistan speaks for itself about the ill intentions of the terrorist groups (like the banned BLA) and their foreign backers.
The scope of terrorist strikes is not restricted only to the physical domain, and modern communication tools are being used intensively to blow out the psychological fibre of society. National resolve against the menace of terrorism is a key strength of Pakistani society, which always remains in the cross-hairs of anti-state elements. Ironically, digital platforms on social media are being used intensively by the backers of banned groups to undermine the counter-terror(CT) efforts.
It becomes more worrisome once certain peculiar events become a source of spreading controversial views in the garb of free speech. In the past, literary festivals offered the podium to the speakers invited from neighbouring countries with a background of poetry cum film, and specific writing works. Contrary to the basic ethics, the guest spoke on all controversial issues other than the literature, with a visible tilt towards the BJP-led Indian government’s stance.
Over a period of time, the AJ conference, held in memory of a famous deceased lawyer every year, has also become a platform where a few guests try to spark controversies and create polarisation on the sensitive issues meriting a rational-based consensus. In a recent session of the conference, certain firebrand commentators have made irresponsible remarks on the issue of terrorism amid coordinated attacks by the banned BLA.
Foreign-backed BLA (designated terrorist organisation by the USA in 2025) has escalated attacks this year using suicide bombings (including women), hostage-taking, infrastructure sabotage, and targeting civilians, security forces, and development projects. Baluchistan is an integral, inseparable part of Pakistan, historically, legally, and emotionally. BLA, with the obvious backing of Indian state actors, is trying to dent the writ of the state in Baluchistan with baseless separatist narratives.
Security operations are always conducted within legal frameworks with an aim to minimise civilian harm despite extreme provocation.
Unfolding of events, especially the criminal terrorist attacks claimed by the banned group and its ilk, leaves no space for any softer consideration amid the integrity of Pakistan. The state is compelled to respond decisively to protect citizens, maintain order, and safeguard the infrastructures and ongoing development projects meant to benefit Baluchistan. Security operations are always conducted within legal frameworks with an aim to minimise civilian harm despite extreme provocation.
Enforced disappearances or missing persons cases are complex: many involve individuals who joined terrorist groups, crossed borders, or were abducted by the terrorist groups. Government mechanisms (Commission of Inquiry, recoveries, prosecutions) exist; Balochistan has introduced transparent legal processes. Generalised blanket accusations actually play in favour of terrorists who leave no stone unturned to portray the victimhood.
Those making fiery speeches to trigger the rhetoric without logic in the comfortable conference halls should understand that perception of grievances (resources, political inclusion, development) must be addressed through democratic channels, provincial autonomy (18th Amendment), federal transfers, and mega-projects.
In any case, hardcore terrorism and armed violence are not the legal or constitutional way to resolve the issues. Pakistan, as a matter of principle, firmly rejects external interference that fuels terrorism.
Lawyer Asma Jahangir, to whom the conference was dedicated, had a legacy of defending rights within the constitutional framework of Pakistan. She had been mostly critical towards the ruling quarters but never left the element of rationality and legality. Unfortunately, a few speakers misused the right of free speech to further the polarisation on the issue of terrorism.
No banned terrorist group can represent the people of Baluchistan. Confusing the legitimate rights with terrorism is a big disservice to the country, the people of Baluchistan and the AJ conference platform as well.
The nation cannot afford to be confused about Indian backed terrorist groups. Prosperity and stability in Baluchistan depend upon the restoration of the normal democratic process and people-led development projects. Softer and distorted commentary in favour of terrorist groups must be avoided on debating platforms meant for strengthening the democratic and constitutional culture.
The writer is a freelance contributor based in Islamabad.