CONTEXT: On March 11, 2025, insurgents from the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) halted a long-distance train in the Quetta area and took the passengers captive.
About Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA):
Who is the BLA?
- The Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) is a Baloch ethnonationalist group advocating for an independent Balochistan, a region spanning parts of Pakistan, Iran, and Afghanistan.
- It was banned in Pakistan in 2006 and has been designated a global terrorist organization by the U.S. in 2019.
BLA’s Role in the Attack
The recent train hijacking was carried out by the BLA’s Majeed Brigade, a suicide squad (Fidayeen unit) that has been active since 2011.
Other specialized BLA units involved in the attack include STOS, Fatah Squad, and Zirab Units.
The BLA has previously targeted Pakistani establishments and projects, particularly in the Baluchistan region.
Recent Attacks:
- March 2024: Attack on a security complex near Gwadar Port.
- October 2024: Suicide bombing that killed two Chinese nationals working on CPEC projects.
Overview of the Baloch Insurgency
Economic and Political Context
- Balochistan is Pakistan’s largest province by area but remains the most underdeveloped, despite its rich resources such as oil, gas, gold, and copper.
- Ethnic Baloch leaders argue that the Pakistani government, predominantly influenced by Punjab, has engaged in the economic exploitation of the region, which has fueled discontent and demands for greater autonomy or independence.
Historical Context
- After Partition in 1947-48, Balochistan maintained its independence and operated under a friendship treaty with Pakistan.
- The Khan of Kalat, a prominent leader, initially opposed joining Pakistan but was pressured into signing the accession agreement in March 1948.
- Despite this, many Baloch nationalists continued to push for independence, leading to decades of insurgency and unrest in the region.
Insurgency and Its Consequences
- Over the years, tens of thousands have lost their lives due to the ongoing Baloch insurgencies, which have often involved clashes between insurgents and Pakistani security forces.
- The Pakistani government regularly accuses India of supporting Baloch insurgents, although India consistently denies these claims.
- A notable target of insurgents are Chinese personnel and projects related to the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), with insurgents arguing that these initiatives will not benefit the local Baloch population but will instead further marginalize them.