Delving into Pakistan's historical trajectory reveals that the foundational institutions inherited from the colonial era — bureaucracy, military, and judiciary — have been pivotal components of the nation's heritage. During the colonial epoch, these institutions served as instrumental tools wielded by imperial rulers to govern the populace, forming alliances with the power elites. This dynamic established a hierarchical relationship between the governing authorities and the governed masses.
Regrettably, post-independence, Pakistani leadership perpetuated this entrenched mindset, resulting in a conspicuous absence of a genuine connection between the state and its citizens.
In adherence to this prevailing paradigm, the ruling echelon crafted a novel national narrative and disseminated new slogans, such as Muslim nationalism, the ideology of Pakistan, and the emphatic call for a strong political centre. Meticulously devised, these linguistic constructs became the cornerstone of their political ascendancy, effectively stalling the process of institutionalisation. Consequently, the lofty ideals of civilian and constitutional supremacy evolved into elusive aspirations for the nation.
Simultaneously, the promotion of centralisation precipitated a systematic erosion of the distinct economic, social, historical, and political identities of the diverse nations coexisting within Pakistan. This resulted in a palpable sense of disaffection and animosity among the populace. Lamentably, the custodians of the state never acknowledged that nationalism embodies a tangible and dynamic societal reality.
The historical struggle for political and economic rights in Balochistan traces far into the past, with recent intensification attributed to the last military operation led by General Pervez Musharaf. This operation, marked by the mass abduction of thousands of innocent Baloch people, has perpetuated the enduring issue of missing persons for over two decades.
In response, Baloch women embarked on a long march towards Islamabad. However, upon arrival, the state's response was one of egregious brutality – employing cold water cannons in extreme cold, subjecting them to torture, stripping them of their dignity, and ultimately arresting them. These women were denied the basic right to meet anyone during their custody.
Despite the wrongdoings by the state, it remains evident that the people of Balochistan desire active engagement in federal politics. Reigniting the dialogue process with Baloch leaders living in exile, a channel that gained momentum during Dr. Abdul Malik Baloch's tenure, is imperative. Ensuring the inclusion of all stakeholders in this matter is essential for genuine reconciliation
While the issue of missing persons in Balochistan remains grave, the state consistently displays a lackadaisical attitude, attempting to sweep it under the rug through implausible excuses. The gravity of the situation reached new heights when the caretaker, Prime Minister Anwaar-ul-Kakar, exacerbated tensions by suggesting that those advocating for Baloch women should align themselves with groups like BLA and BLF. Expressing his frustration, he callously remarked that the era of 1971, when Bangladesh gained independence in nine months, was in the past. Pro-people intellectuals have expressed profound disappointment, interpreting his statements as indicative of the state's belief that the independence achieved by Bangladesh, a thousand miles away, cannot be replicated in Balochistan. The evident inclination of the state towards employing violent means to quell the issue has raised serious concerns.
In contrast to the state's stance, the Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) exhibited remarkable courage during challenging times. In a press conference, they openly named institutions responsible for the illegal abduction of Baloch individuals. The HRCP emphasised the inherently political nature of the issue and urged all political parties to unite for a political resolution. Additionally, the press conference addressed electoral irregularities against the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), shedding light on the challenges confronting the nation.
Despite the wrongdoings by the state, it remains evident that the people of Balochistan desire active engagement in federal politics. Reigniting the dialogue process with Baloch leaders living in exile, a channel that gained momentum during Dr. Abdul Malik Baloch's tenure, is imperative. Ensuring the inclusion of all stakeholders in this matter is essential for genuine reconciliation.
Previously, the PTI government initially committed to addressing the issue by passing a legal draft bill criminalising the illegal abduction of Pakistani citizens through the National Assembly. However, the sudden disappearance of this bill in the Senate, akin to the plight of Baloch missing persons, raised eyebrows. In the current exigency, it is incumbent upon the Supreme Court to recognise the gravity of the missing persons' issue. Establishing a judicial commission to probe these abductions, liberate the innocent, present others in courts, and assist the parliament in drafting clear legislation must be pursued urgently.
The state negotiates with the banned Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and grants them amnesty, yet hesitates to engage in dialogue with Baloch leaders in exile or bring missing persons before Pakistani courts. Earlier, hundreds of Baloch women protested at D-Chowk in Islamabad. Many, uncertain about their husbands' fates, expressed the heartbreaking dilemma of not knowing whether they were still married or widowed. This scene brought tears to the eyes of all present.
Quaid-e-Azam emphasised the state's foremost duty is to protect its citizens. The glaring disparity between this noble principle and the current state of affairs demands introspection – what justifies such behaviour?
The resolution of the Balochistan issue is intrinsically linked to democratic progress and constitutional supremacy. It is imperative that every political party be afforded a fair opportunity to contest elections, fostering a political landscape driven by purposeful aspirations. However, the historical reality in Pakistan, particularly in Balochistan, reflects the recurrent challenge posed by the establishment of fair elections. While it is acknowledged that in the 2018 elections, the PML-N faced treatment akin to the current treatment of PTI, it is crucial to recognise that rectifying one injustice does not justify perpetuating another.
Political leadership shares a responsibility. In light of the courageous stance exhibited by Baloch women, political parties must unite, pledging opposition to undemocratic acts by the establishment. Failure to do so risks disillusioning the populace, potentially leading to apathy and non-participation. This provides fertile ground for the establishment to perpetuate hybrid regimes.
Achieving constitutional supremacy is undoubtedly a challenging and prolonged endeavour, but it is crucial to curbing illegal acts by the establishment. Without it, efforts to address the pressing issue of missing persons are likely to be in vain. The concerted efforts of political parties committed to upholding democratic principles are pivotal in establishing a sustainable framework that safeguards citizens' rights and ensures constitutional order.