PM Shehbaz urges dialogue to reintegrate ‘misled’ Balochistan citizens amid rising militancy

Quetta, June 1, 2025 – Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif called for efforts to reintegrate individuals “misled” by terrorist groups in Balochistan, emphasizing dialogue and development as key solutions to the province’s unrest. His remarks came during his address at the Balochistan Grand Jirga on Saturday, where he outlined plans for economic uplift and counterterrorism measures.

Security Concerns and Call for Reconciliation

Balochistan has witnessed a surge in militant attacks in recent months, with separatist groups escalating violence through intensified assaults on security forces. The Prime Minister condemned these acts, urging collective action against “blood-thirsty terrorists” while advocating for peaceful resolution of grievances.

“We must bring back those who were misled onto the wrong path,” PM Shehbaz stated. “Economic and social injustices will not be tolerated under my government. If there are concerns, we must sit together and resolve them through dialogue.”

He also referenced alleged foreign involvement in destabilizing Pakistan, echoing recent claims by Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) Director General Lt Gen Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry, who accused India of sponsoring terrorism in the region.

Rs250 Billion Development Package for Balochistan

In a major announcement, the premier revealed that Balochistan would receive Rs250 billion from the federal Public Sector Development Programme (PSDP) in the upcoming budget—25% of the total Rs1 trillion allocated for provincial and federal projects.

“Even this amount seems insufficient given Balochistan’s needs,” he admitted, stressing transparency in resource utilization. Key projects highlighted included the N-25 Highway reconstruction, the Kachhi Canal Phase-II, and a Rs70 billion solar initiative for farmers.

Punjab’s NFC Contribution and National Unity

Reflecting on inter-provincial solidarity, PM Shehbaz noted that Punjab had contributed Rs11 billion to Balochistan in 2010 under the National Finance Commission (NFC) award—equivalent to Rs160 billion today. “For national unity, even Rs1,600 billion would not be too much,” he asserted, underscoring the need for greater investment in the province.

Pakistan “Flying High” Despite Challenges

Earlier in the day, while addressing the Quetta Command and Staff College, the Prime Minister touted Pakistan’s military and economic resilience. He referenced the recent escalation with India, including Pakistan’s downing of five Indian jets in retaliation to cross-border strikes, and credited diplomatic efforts for de-escalation.

“Pakistan is soaring militarily and economically,” he declared, pointing to post-conflict stability and development initiatives as signs of progress.

Conclusion

The Grand Jirga concluded with a reinforced commitment to addressing Balochistan’s challenges through dialogue, development, and stringent counterterrorism measures. As security operations continue, the government’s focus remains on winning back “misled” segments of society while ensuring equitable growth for the province.