Pakistan has ‘lost control over 80% of Balochistan,’ says Baloch leader

Baloch leader Razzak Baloch claims Pakistan has lost control of over 80% of Balochistan, with military forces avoiding patrols after dark and warning of a Bangladesh-like crisis if ignored.

Members of ‘Baloch Yakjehti Committee” hold the posters of a Baloch human right activist Mahrang Baloch during a protest demanding to release Mahrang, in Karachi, Pakistan. (AP Photo)

UPDATED: May 17, 2025 01:27 IST

In a blistering interview with TAG TV, Razzak Baloch, Secretary General of the Baloch American Congress, accused Pakistani authorities of losing control over most of Balochistan, claiming that even the military is too afraid to patrol key cities after dark.

“Pakistani forces cannot even leave Quetta after dark,” Baloch told the Canada-based news channel. “From 5 pm to 5 am, roads are deserted by the army out of fear,” he added, highlighting a collapse in law and order.

According to Baloch, more than 80% of the resource-rich province is no longer under effective control of the Pakistani government. He warned that Islamabad faces a situation eerily reminiscent of 1971, when Bangladesh (then East Pakistan) broke away following a brutal military crackdown. Razzak Baloch interview was carried by news agency ANI, and come at a time when Baloch separatist movements have intensified their activities, coupled with large-scale protests and detentions of prominent activists like Marang Baloch.

“The Pakistani army should withdraw with dignity now, before they leave their boots behind like they did in Bangladesh,” Baloch said.

He emphasized the urgency of international recognition for the Baloch struggle and appealed to democratic countries to host representatives of the movement. He also stressed the ongoing imprisonment of Marang Baloch and the persistence of mass protests across the province as signs of a deepening resistance.

While acknowledging the efforts of domestic political figures like Sardar Akhtar Mengal, Baloch insisted that foreign support is essential to dismantle what he described as Pakistani military strongholds in cities like Quetta and Chowni.

Asked whether India should host a Baloch government-in-exile, he responded defiantly, “We do not beg. We speak with our masculinity. But if India supports Balochistan’s freedom, the doors of Balochistan will open to India.”

He warned that delaying international support would empower what he called the “barbarian army,” leading to consequences not only for Balochistan but for the broader South Asian region.

In a final note, Baloch said, “This is a moment for peace and regional harmony. The oppression must end—not just in Balochistan, but across all of Pakistan’s provinces.”

Published By:

Aashish Vashistha

Published On:

May 17, 2025

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