Modern Intra-Balochistan Conflict and its Different Interpretations: A Critical Analysis under CPEC Scenario

Abstract

Rival states of Pakistan always propagate annexation of Balochistan into Pakistan as an illegal act since 1948 but they neglect historical facts which highlighted not only the friendly relations between Jinnah and Khan of Kalat but also press release of Viceroy’s House New Delhi on August 11, 1947 about natural affiliation of Pakistan and State of Kalat. Similarly, Pak-China relations since the 1949 had unofficially recognized the need of “One Belt, One Road” (OBOR) that was totally unacceptable for anti-Pakistan states. Therefore, they always tried to trigger ethnic identities regarding destabilizing Pakistan. And, 40% Baloch ethnic community of Balochistan Province is one of their targets. This study describes the geopolitical and economic importance of the province for Pakistan that encourage anti-Pakistan states to trigger intra-Balochistan conflict regarding destabilizing economically and politically. As their funded waves of insurgency have been minimized by the mutual cooperation of Pakistan Army and the local patriotic populace, this study also highlights triggered thoughts against CPEC routes that have to link Kashgar to Gwadar from three directions within the Balochistan. Military strategy about completion of CPEC project and the socio-economic development of Balochistan is analyzed according to the philosophies presented by David Keen and Paul Collier.