Balochistan govt offers opposition mandate to resolve terror issue through dialogue

QUETTA: The Balochistan government on Friday condemned the recent terrorist acts in the province, calling them part of an organised conspiracy by anti-state elements. It vowed to deal with them strictly and thwart all conspiracies against Pakistan.

Addressing a news conference alongside provincial ministers at the Chief Minister’s Secretariat, Balochistan government’s spokesperson, Shahid Rind, emphasized that the provincial government is serious about resolving issues through dialogue, and in this regard the chief minister offered the opposition to resolve the problems.

However, he said the government’s stance on terrorism is clear and unequivocal i.e. strict action will be taken against those involved in killings under the guise of ethnicity and identity.

Speaking at the news conference, Provincial Minister for Development and Planning, Zahoor Buledi, said in the Jaffar Express attack, innocent passengers were held hostage and subjected to violence and brutality. He also referred to a recent terrorism incident in Gwadar where innocent citizens were taken off a passenger bus and martyred, which was extremely tragic and condemnable.

He further mentioned that in a recent blast, a renowned doctor, Mehrullah Tareen, was targeted, who was a professional and he had dedicated his life to public service.

Buledi said the recent acts of terrorism could not be condemned enough, and the government is working on this matter with full seriousness. He said enemies of Balochistan’s development cannot tolerate progress, but these elements will not be pardoned under any circumstances.

While Provincial Finance Minister Shoaib Nosherwani said Balochistan is currently facing a new wave of terrorism but the government is determined to eliminate this menace in collaboration with citizens. He acknowledged that some areas face deprivation and poor governance, however, the government is taking practical steps to address these issues. He assured all necessary measures are being taken to improve governance and law and order.