India has firmly rejected Pakistan's recent allegations regarding violence in Balochistan, dismissing them as completely baseless and characterizing them as a deliberate attempt by Islamabad to divert attention from its own internal challenges. The official response came on Sunday, February 1, from Randhir Jaiswal, the spokesperson for the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), who emphasized that Pakistan should instead concentrate on addressing the longstanding demands of its own citizens.
Official Statement from Ministry of External Affairs
In a strongly worded statement, the Ministry of External Affairs categorically rejected what it termed as Pakistan's usual tactics of making frivolous claims. The ministry asserted, "We categorically reject the baseless allegations made by Pakistan, which are nothing but its usual tactics to deflect attention from its own internal failings."
New Delhi further elaborated, "Instead of parroting frivolous claims each time there is a violent incident, it would do better to focus on addressing long-standing demands of its people in the region. Its record of suppression, brutality and violation of human rights is well known." This statement underscores India's position that Pakistan's allegations are unfounded and serve as a smokescreen for its domestic issues.
Background of Pakistan's Allegations
India's rebuttal was prompted by claims from Pakistan's Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, who alleged New Delhi's involvement in the recent attacks in Balochistan. These allegations followed a series of coordinated assaults that occurred on Saturday, January 31, across multiple locations in the province.
Details of the Balochistan Attacks
The Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) claimed responsibility for what it described as Operation Herof 2.0, targeting 48 different locations across 14 cities in Balochistan. According to the BLA's statement, the attacks were simultaneously carried out in key areas including:
- Quetta
- Noshki
- Mastung
- Dalbandin
- Kalat
- Kharan
- Panjgur
- Gwadar
- Pasni
- Turbat
- Tump
- Buleda
- Mangochar
- Lasbela
- Kech
- Awaran
The BLA reported that during this operation, they neutralized 84 personnel from the Pakistani army, police, intelligence agencies, and Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD), with dozens more wounded and 18 captured alive. Additionally, the group claimed to have taken control of multiple enemy posts, including the central military headquarters, and restricted enemy movement across various cities.
Impact and Ongoing Operations
The BLA's statement detailed significant disruptions caused by the attacks, including:
- Control and destruction of over 30 government properties such as banks, offices, and prisons.
- Setting fire to more than 23 enemy vehicles.
- Paralysis of administrative structures and decision-making processes in multiple cities.
- Forced retreat of enemy army and police forces to defensive positions in urban areas.
The operation is reportedly ongoing, with participation from multiple BLA units including the Fateh Squad, Majeed Brigade, and the intelligence wing ZIRAB. This escalation highlights the ongoing tensions in the region and the complex security challenges faced by Pakistan.
India's rejection of Pakistan's allegations reinforces its stance on non-interference and calls for Islamabad to address internal grievances rather than making external accusations. The situation continues to develop, with both nations maintaining their positions amid regional instability.
