Context: Insurgents of the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) stopped a long-distance train in Quetta region and took passengers hostage on March 11, 2025.
Relevance of the Topic: Prelims: Location: Balochistan; Balochistan Liberation Army (Key Facts)
About Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA):
- Who is the BLA?
- It is a Baloch ethnonationalist group advocating for an independent Balochistan.
- It has been banned in Pakistan (2006) and designated as a global terrorist organization by the U.S. (2019).
- BLA’s role in the attack:
- The attack was led by BLA’s Majeed Brigade, a suicide squad (Fidayeen unit) active since 2011.
- Other specialised BLA units (STOS, Fatah Squad, and Zirab Units) were also involved.
- Earlier, it has carried out attacks on Pakistani establishments and projects, especially in Baluchistan region.
- March 2024: Attack on a security complex near Gwadar port.
- October 2024: Suicide bombing killed two Chinese nationals working on CPEC projects.
Brief background of the Baloch Insurgency
- Economic and Political Issues:
- Balochistan is Pakistan’s largest but least developed province, rich in oil, gas, gold, and copper.
- Ethnic Baloch leaders accuse the Federal government (dominated by Punjab) of economic exploitation.
- Historical Background:
- Post-Partition (1947-48):
- Balochistan remained independent until March 1948 under a friendship treaty with Pakistan.
- The Khan of Kalat initially resisted joining Pakistan but was pressured into signing the accession.
- Many Baloch continued to support independence, leading to decades of insurgency.
- Post-Partition (1947-48):
- Insurgency and its Impact:
- Tens of thousands have been killed in Baloch insurgencies over the years.
- Pakistan often accuses India of supporting Baloch insurgents, an allegation which India denies.
- Insurgents frequently target Chinese personnel & CPEC projects, fearing they would not benefit.