| ID | 150815 |
| Title Proper | Independence movement of Balochistan |
| Language | ENG |
| Author | Verma, Jai Kumar |
| Summary / Abstract (Note) | In a bold departure from the old practice, Prime Minister Modi
made a reference to Balochistan, Gilgit and Baltistan in his
Independence Day speech; nonetheless the move was criticised
by the Pakistan government as well as by leaders of Indian
opposition parties. But the nationalist leaders of Balochistan
welcomed the move. The Khan of Kalat declared independence
and never wanted to be a part of Pakistan. Jinnah forcibly
merged Balochistan. The mineral-rich Balochistan is the biggest
province of the country, but it is the poorest region in south
Asia. The federal government, with an ulterior motive, is hindering
the progress of the province. The Pakistan government, instead
of redressing the legitimate problems of the province, alleges
that the insurgency in the state is fuelled by foreign powers.
Baloch leaders oppose the construction of the China-Pakistan
Economic Corridor (CPEC) as they fear that under the garb of
the CPEC, the Pakistan government would settle outsiders in
the state, which would change the demography of the province.
The Baloch leaders also mention that the CPEC is not in the
interest of the state. Pakistani forces have adopted the policy of
‘kill and dump’ to terrorise the Balochis.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in a momentous departure
from the old policy of defending India against Pakistani onslaught
about the human right violations in Kashmir, made a direct
reference to the Balochistan freedom movement, Gilgit and
Baltistan as well as Pakistan-occupied Kashmir from ramparts
of the Red Fort in his Independence Day speech of 15 August
2016.1 |
| `In' analytical Note | Aakrosh Vol. 20, No.74; Jan 2017: p.42-60 |
| Journal Source | Aakrosh Vol: 20 No 74 |
| Key Words | Pakistan ; POK ; Jammu and Kashmir ; Balochistan ; Gilgit ; Baltistan ; Independence Movement ; Modi, Narendra ; China - Pakistan Economic Corridor |