As many as 400 Baloch insurgents laid down arms and renounced violence on Independence Day, Radio Pakistan reported. The fighters surrendered their weapons during an Independence Day ceremony at Police Lines in Quetta. “Those who laid down their arms are their brothers and will be settled in their homes,” Commander Southern Command General Nasir Khan Janjua said, adding that all these people who laid down arms and renounced the way of violence are our friends, brothers and Pakistanis.” Home Minister Balochistan Sarfaraz Bugti, IG Balochistan and other high civil and military officials were present at the occasion. At long last, there are indications that the situation in Balochistan is taking a turn for the better, thanks to the incumbent Provincial government, Federal government and the military leadership that are coordinating their actions to bring about improvement in the otherwise volatile Province. It is quite understood that some internal elements are being harbored by some foreign forces and Balochistan has become a sort of battleground for proxy war among different regional and global players. It was for the first time in many years that real spirit of Independence Day was also witnessed in Quetta and other cities and towns of the Province. Green and white national flag was fluttering and people participated enthusiastically in different events organized in connection with the Day. It was also a happy coincidence that more militants surrendered their arms and declared their intention to live as peaceful citizens. It seems that the concerted efforts of the Government and the Army are bearing fruit and the package of incentives offered to surrendering militants is attracting more and more to follow their companions. The change being observed in Balochistan bears testimony to the fact that will and determination as well as sincerity of purpose can change the course of the history. Devolution of powers and resources to the Provinces under 18th Amendment, launching of special initiative under Aghaz Haqooq-e-Balochistan package, goodwill gestures towards estranged elements, holding of Local Government elections and firm resolve of the authorities concerned not to spare those playing in the hands of our enemies, have transformed the overall atmosphere to a great extent. One must also pay compliments to FWO, which has carried out immense developmental activities in different parts of the Province at great risks. We are sure that implementation of Balochistan components of China-Pakistan Economic Corridor and exploitation of natural resources of the Province would have healthy impact on socio-economic conditions of people of Balochistan and would thus ensure sustainable peace there.
pk.shafaqna.com
