Rakesh Kumar Sharma
Balochistan’s struggle for independence stems from the understanding that it is not merely a geographical territory bound by political borders, but a distinct civilization representing an ethnic group with a shared culture, language, and tradition. Once a unified and independent region, Balochistan was divided among three countries-Pakistan, Iran, and Afghanistan-due to colonial-era political bifurcations. Of the total Balochistan territory, approximately 347,200 square kilometers lie within Pakistan, accounting for about 44% of its total landmass.
People and Resources
Balochistan is primarily inhabited by the Baloch people, an ethnic group historically associated with nomadic and pastoral traditions. The native language is Balochi, part of the Western Iranian language family. The region is also home to minority communities such as the Brahui, Pashtun, and Sindhi. Geographically, Balochistan is a rugged, mountainous area, with sparse vegetation and limited forests. However, it is rich in natural resources, including gold, copper, lithium, rare earth elements, coal, natural gas, fluoride, lead, and zinc-making it one of the most resource-abundant areas in South Asia.
The Kalat State and the Path to Annexation
Despite its mineral wealth, Balochistan has remained economically underdeveloped and politically marginalized. At the time of India’s independence in 1947, the princely states within Balochistan-Kalat, Kharan, Lasbela, and Makran-were given the option to join either India or Pakistan or remain independent. Except for Kalat, the other three states acceded to Pakistan under the influence of Muhammad Ali Jinnah.Kalat held a special status due to the Treaty of 1876, which granted it internal autonomy and placed it in Category B, akin to the princely states of Bhutan and Sikkim. Accordingly, it was under no obligation to join either India or Pakistan. On August 15, 1947, Khan Mir Ahmed Yar Khan, the ruler of Kalat, declared independence and hoisted the traditional flag of Kalat.
The Annexation of Balochistan
However, Kalat’s independence was short-lived. On September 12, 1947, the British issued a memorandum-at the behest of Muhammad Ali Jinnah-declaring that Kalat lacked the capacity to undertake international responsibilities. In December 1947, the Khan of Kalat attempted to acquire arms from London but was denied assistance. He also reportedly approached New Delhi for accession, but India showed little interest.Facing growing pressure and without support, the Khan of Kalat eventually agreed to a forced merger with Pakistan in March 1948, describing it as a “dictate of history.” The Pakistani military had already moved into coastal Balochistan by that time. This controversial and involuntary merger sparked long-lasting resentment and gave rise to repeated uprisings in 1948, 1958-59, 1963-67, and 1972-77.
Continued Unrest and Marginalization
Since 1948, Balochistan has witnessed numerous armed revolts and political insurgencies. These have often been met with military operations and severe crackdowns. Thousands of people have been killed, and many more imprisoned or forcibly disappeared, frequently without due process. The state’s response has largely ignored the socio-economic and political grievances of the Baloch people.
Despite being rich in natural resources, Balochistan remains the most underdeveloped province in Pakistan. Much of the wealth extracted from the region benefits other parts of the country, deepening the sense of exploitation. The assassination and enforced disappearances of Baloch leaders and activists have further fueled mistrust toward the central government. Allegations of human rights violations, including extrajudicial killings, torture, and targeting of civilians, are common in the region.
Current Situation in Balochistan
Since 2004, Balochistan has witnessed a renewed wave of insurgency. Key armed groups like the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA), Balochistan Liberation Front (BLF), and others have led the struggle for independence. A prominent leader in this movement was Nawab Akbar Bugti, a former governor and tribal chief who championed Baloch rights. He was killed in a controversial military operation in 2006, further igniting the resistance.These organizations have carried out attacks targeting security forces. Significant incidents include protests and attacks on 9th May, 25th April, and 11th March. On 11th March 2025, a dramatic incident occurred when a passenger train carrying around 4,000 people was reportedly hijacked by the BLA, drawing national and international concern.In parallel, civil society movements have grown stronger. Thousands have participated in peaceful rallies and protests, demanding justice, autonomy, and the cessation of state oppression. The movement continues to gather momentum, fueled by deep-rooted dissatisfaction over political disenfranchisement and economic neglect.
Conclusion: A Regional Responsibility
Balochistan is an ancient land with a proud cultural heritage and immense economic potential. Yet its people continue to struggle with poverty, alienation, and identity suppression. Though the region plays a vital role in Pakistan’s economic future-particularly through the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) and Gwadar Port-its residents have been sidelined. The 1948 annexation disregarded the aspirations of the Baloch people. Since then, successive uprisings have been brutally suppressed, with little effort made to address the root causes. In this context, the people of Balochistan are increasingly looking to the international community, including India, for support.India, as a responsible regional power, can no longer afford to ignore the plight of the Baloch people-especially in light of Pakistan’s persistent support for cross-border terrorism against India. Revelations from India’s “Operation Sindoor” exposed covert operations by Pakistan to destabilize India. Therefore, India must reconsider its policy of non-interference and explore providing moral, political, and even financial support to the Baloch cause.
Doing so would not only advance justice for an oppressed people but also serve India’s strategic interests by countering both Pakistani hostility and Chinese expansionism in the region. A friendly and autonomous Balochistan could become a key strategic ally for India in South Asia. It is imperative that India remains vigilant and proactive in addressing the evolving geopolitical realities in its neighborhood.
(The author is an Air Veteran )
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