Baluchistan, Pakistan's largest but least populous province, is a region plagued by persistent unrest. On March 11th, BLA militants hijacked a train, taking approximately 100 passengers hostage.
Pakistan: Baluchistan is the largest of Pakistan's four provinces, yet it boasts the smallest population. Despite its rich natural resources, the region remains underdeveloped and neglected. Development is extremely slow, and the area has been embroiled in conflict and insurgency for decades.
BLA Attack: Train Hijacking and Hostage Crisis
On March 11th, 2025, militants from the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) hijacked Pakistan's Quetta-Peshawar Jaffar Express train, taking approximately 100 passengers hostage. This event presented a significant security challenge for Pakistan.
Baluch Insurgency: A History of Uprisings
Since 1948, Baluch nationalists have waged armed resistance against Pakistan.
Major independence movements occurred in 1958-59, 1962-63, and 1973-77.
Continuous insurgency has persisted since 2003.
The 2006 assassination of Baluch leader Akbar Bugti by the Pakistani army further fueled the rebellion.
The recent attack is part of this long-standing struggle for Baluch nationalism.
Key Reasons for Baluchistan's Anger
Gwadar Port: The development of this port, with Chinese assistance, has fueled resentment among the Baluch people.
Economic Exploitation: Pakistan utilizes Baluchistan's mineral wealth to bolster its economy, while the Baluch people receive minimal benefits.
Military Repression: The Pakistani army's consistent attacks on Baluch civilians have increased discontent in the region.
The 1971 Bangladesh Connection and the Baluch Insurgency
Following Bangladesh's independence from Pakistan in 1971, Baluch leaders also demanded autonomy.
Then-Prime Minister Zulfikar Ali Bhutto rejected these demands, escalating the insurgency.
The Baluch conflict reached its peak from 1973 to 1977, known as the Fourth Baluchistan Conflict.
In 1977, General Zia-ul-Haq seized power in a coup, ousting Bhutto and ending the conflict by offering amnesty to Baluch insurgents.
Baluchistan's Forced Merger with Pakistan
At the time of Pakistan's creation in 1947, Baluchistan had three options: joining India, merging with Pakistan, or remaining independent. The Khan of Kalat chose independence, but due to pressure from Jinnah and Pakistan's military might, Baluchistan was forcibly integrated into Pakistan on March 26th, 1948.
