India’s Rejection
India categorically rejected Pakistan’s baseless allegations linking New Delhi to recent deadly attacks in Balochistan, calling them a tactic to deflect from internal failings. MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal urged Pakistan to address Balochistan residents’ long-standing demands instead of suppressing dissent and violating human rights.
Balochistan Violence
Authorities in Pakistan’s southwestern province faced one of the deadliest flare-ups, with insurgents targeting security forces, civilians, and infrastructure, killing at least 33 people. Attackers disguised as civilians struck hospitals, schools, banks, and markets, using human shields in districts like Quetta, Gwadar, Mastung, and Noshki.
Casualties and Response
Balochistan Chief Minister Sarfraz Bugti reported 17 law enforcement personnel and 31 civilians killed, while Pakistan’s military claimed 92 separatists killed on Saturday and 41 on Friday following pre-emptive operations. Attacks included firing on security installations, suicide bombings, and road blockages, repelled by army, police, and counterterrorism units.
Separatist Claims
The Baloch Liberation Army claimed responsibility for the coordinated “Herof” or “black storm” operation, asserting they killed 84 security forces and captured 18, though unverified independently. Pakistan’s Defence Minister noted female perpetrators and targeting of civilians, laborers, and low-income communities in the resource-rich, insurgency-plagued province bordering Iran and Afghanistan.
