By Afshain Afzal

The tragic 9^th November 2024, explosion at Railways Station in Quetta, Balochistan killed 28 persons and injured more than 54 persons including a bulk of military personnel. There are suspicions that India was behind the deadly attack. Other reports speak about cylinder-blast The on-ground preparation for isolating provinces of Balochistan and strips from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa along with Azad Jammu and Kashmir including Gilgit Baltistan is in full swing. Elements in India, Afghanistan and Iran under the patronage of agents and enemies inside Pakistan’s security and bureaucratic apparatus are committed in dividing the country into five autonomous states. As per the Indian Ministry of External Affairs, it would amalgamate Bengal and Bangladesh; followed by establishing a corridor linking India with Afghanistan through Wakhan belt and Nooristan into the Central Asian countries; and into Iran through strips in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan.

Interestingly, instead to taking action Pakistan’s authorities have pre-recorded statements, supporting videos and international reports to confirm that the unrest and terrorism in Balochistan is not as result of foreign interference and plots but it is due to Baloch secessionist groups including Baloch Liberation Army and in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province due to Islamic State and Al Qaida (ISIK/ISIL /ISIS) including Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan. Interestingly, the 9^th November terrorist explosion coincided with the departure of bulk of Indian Army personnel through number of Indian Railways trains and other transportation for 'Poorvi Prahaar' exercise, a nine-day exercise commencing from 10^th November 2024, aim to develop collaboration capabilities of the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force in conducting joint operations in areas adjoining Bangladesh.

The Chief Minister of Balochistan, Mir Sarfraz Bugti disclosed that authorities would pursue the terrorists and bring them to their logical end. The Chief of Army Staff General Syed Asim Munir said terrorism will never be tolerated and reaffirmed nation's resolve and commitment towards eradicating this menace. General Syed Asif Munir fight against terrorism requires the steadfast support of nation, along with the efforts of the military and civil institutions, to secure a peaceful and prosperous future for the country. Many nations including Gulf expressed condolences with the Government of Pakistan.

Meanwhile, Pakistan signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Thai government to acquire 100 Chaiseri First Win vehicles, designed for protection against ambushes and explosives. These mine-resistant vehicles are set to enhance the Pakistan Army’s capability to operate in challenging environments.  However, new Constitutional Amendments have given extensive powers to the security forces, which is feared may not be misused and these vehicles might not be used against own people. It is time to check the authenticity of intelligence inputs from foreign and own quarters and instead of using Chaiseri First Win vehicles internal elements or for hire, save them for enemies and adversaries to protect external borders. The lives of personnel are most vital but we must be very sure what statements are being issued.