Baluch Conundrum

Pakistan's focus from the very outset has not been on resetting its constitutional framework for balanced power sharing with minorities. Instead, it has relied heavily on two main pillars: first, an overreliance on foreign aid rather than fostering sustainable economic reforms to generate ample domestic revenue, and second, it has always overreacted and sensationalised a persistent narrative of insecurity that serves to silence dissent and bolster military authority

- GOURI SANKAR NAG ARPAN BHATTACHARYA

As we enter Pakistan, we cannot undermine its critical role not only in the South Asian theatre but also as a gateway to West Asia and the Central Asian arc. The country's landscape stretches from the towering Karakoram Pass in the northeast to vital naval routes through the Arabian Sea. Despite this strategic significance that adds to its potential gain, Pakistan has faced significant challenges including internal power struggles, militancy, and proxy conflicts aimed at challenging India, particularly over Kashmir.

These issues persist alongside a pervasive culture of corruption and kickbacks that undermines governance. Additionally, there is a growing social distrust that deepens polarisation within society, shaking hopes for overcoming these obstacles. The absence of a social compact and the need for a credible performance state further complicate the prospects for stability and progress in Pakistan.

Recently, Pakistan has dominated news headlines due to the escalating Baloch issue as the disconcerting news of the hijack of the Jaffar express by the Balochistan Liberation Army led to widespread panic in the subcontinent and highlighted ongoing tensions in the beleaguered country. We must appreciate the gravity of this situation in the backdrop of global events.

While there is a glimmer of hope for a potential resolution to the prolonged Russia-Ukraine conflict, this in no way takes us towards a predictable silver line of respite. It applies to the failed state of Yemen as much as it is evident in the pressing challenges faced by conflict-torn states like Pakistan.