Gwadar/Quetta – Ongoing protests in Gwadar, Quetta and other parts of Balochistan continue to escalate. This occurs despite government claims of successful negotiations with Baloch Yakjehti Committee (BYC). Sit-ins paralyze life in the region. They appear no sign of abating until all requests of protestors are met.
BYC’s demands include release of arrested participants. They also call for withdrawal of cases against them. Furthermore, they look for enlistment of FIRs against those included in later shootings in Gwadar and Noshki. Both government and BYC accuse each other of failing to uphold commitments from last week’s negotiations
Gwadar Protests: Deadlock and Rising Tensions
Dr. Mahrang Baloch, prominent BYC leader, criticized the government for not fulfilling promises. Home Minister Ziaullah Langove blamed BYC for not ending sit-ins despite the release of supporters. Tension remains high in Gwadar Quetta, Noshki Turbat, Awaran.
Leaders from various political factions including Maulana Hidayatur Rehman, Hussain Vadela of Haq Do Tehreek are attempting to mediate. They hope to convince BYC to end protests.
Government’s Efforts and Challenges Amid Gwadar Protests
The Home Minister reported that the government has released all arrested BYC members. Coastal highway has reopened. Trucks carrying essential goods now reach Gwadar and Turbat. Despite these efforts, protests continue unabated.
Jamaat-i-Islami’s Involvement in Gwadar Protest
In parallel Jamaat-i-Islami (JI) has engaged in a third round of talks with the government. JI, led by Hafiz Naeemur Rehman, has unveiled plans for a series of nationwide protests if the government fails to address their demands regarding heavy taxes and inflated electricity bills.
JI’s Vice President Liaquat Baloch led the party’s delegation. Government’s team included Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi and Information Minister Attaullah Tarar. Positive talks were reported. Further discussions scheduled.
Historical Context and Broader Impact of Gwadar Protests
Protests in Gwadar are part of broader wave of unrest in Balochistan, driven by long standing grievances over economic marginalization and political disenfranchisement. BYC’s sit-in is continuation of Baloch demands for greater autonomy and control over their resources.
Situation in Balochistan has been tense since late July. Government blocked highways to prevent political gathering by BYC. This led to clashes. Arrests occurred and use of force by security personnel resulted in several deaths and injuries.
Roots of the Gwadar Protest
The current unrest in Gwadar has deep roots in historical grievances of Baloch people. The Balochistan region, rich in natural resources, has long been a site of economic exploitation and political neglect. Baloch people have repeatedly voiced discontent over lack of local benefits from large-scale projects. Central government’s failure to address basic needs has also contributed to unrest.
Baloch Yakjehti Committee (BYC) emerged as a significant force advocating for rights of Baloch people. They demand better resource management. Political autonomy is also on the agenda. Socio-economic development remains critical. Protests intensified with the announcement of China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) projects. Local population perceives these projects as benefiting external stakeholders at the expense of Baloch.
Blockade of main highways and crackdown on Baloch Raji Machi or Baloch National Gathering in late July were seen as further attempts at marginalization. This galvanized the local population. It led to widespread protests, sit-ins and broader movement for Baloch rights.
Human Rights Issues in Gwadar Protests
Human rights organizations including Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) and Amnesty International, have condemned the government’s crackdown on peaceful protests. Reports of violence arrests and enforced disappearances have drawn international attention Amnesty International has called for immediate release of all detained protestors. It emphasizes the need for peaceful assembly. Human Rights Watch has urged Pakistani authorities to show restraint. Restore internet access in affected areas
Chinese Intervention and Strategic Impact on Gwadar Protests
Unrest in Gwadar, a focal point of $65 billion China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) has significant economic and strategic implications Gwadar is seen as a linchpin in China’s Belt and Road Initiative. Local Baloch populations feel marginalized and excluded from benefits of these developments
The Chinese Consul General in Karachi, Yang Yundong, has urged all parties to prioritize national interest and economic development. However local Baloch activists argue that development projects serve external interests while neglecting the needs of indigenous population. Strategic importance of Gwadar for China’s global trade and energy supply routes makes it a critical point of interest for Beijing, which has invested heavily in the port city.
China’s involvement in the region is seen as both a catalyst for economic growth and source of contention. Baloch people fear displacement and demographic changes due to influx of non-Baloch workers. Militarization of their homeland exacerbates concerns. The Chinese government’s call for stability aligns with broader geopolitical ambitions. However it raises questions about long-term impact on local population and their rights.
