CM Sarfraz Bugti: False narrative, not backwardness, is Balochistan’s core issue

CM Sarfraz Bugti: False narrative, not backwardness, is Balochistan’s core issue

Underdevelopment exists in every province, but nowhere is it used as a justification to take up arms against state: Bugti

 

 

Chief Minister Balochistan, Mir Sarfraz Bugti, has said that the province’s fundamental issue is not backwardness but a misleading narrative. He stressed the need to distinguish between facts and perceptions, noting that unfortunately, Balochistan’s true history is often misrepresented. He added that underdevelopment exists in every province of Pakistan, but nowhere is it used as a justification to take up arms against the state.

 

Addressing participants at the National School of Public Policy, the Chief Minister declared that the dream of breaking Balochistan away from Pakistan will never succeed. He cited Article 5 of the Constitution, which calls for unconditional loyalty to the state, and emphasized that efforts are being made to bridge the gap between the youth and the state by listening to young people at every level.

 

Mir Sarfraz Bugti reiterated that the government is always ready for dialogue with political stakeholders, but negotiations cannot be held with those who take up arms. He urged that Balochistan’s issues must be understood in their factual and historical context, as false narratives distort the reality of the province’s situation.

 

Referring to Balochistan’s accession to Pakistan, he said historical facts must be viewed in the correct perspective. He pointed out that the Khan of Kalat himself wrote in his book that the accession was made with his consent. He stressed that studying authentic sources is essential to understanding Balochistan’s history.

 

The Chief Minister also highlighted concerns regarding bureaucracy, noting that some officers from Punjab are reluctant to serve in Balochistan. He remarked that unless officials observe conditions on the ground, they cannot truly understand the realities. He concluded that policymaking and administrative decisions must be based on local circumstances, public needs, and genuine issues.