Balochistan’s history is one of political struggle, colonial exploitation, and eventual integration into Pakistan. The British and the Iranians divided the region, which they brought under colonial influence in 1876. The British partitioned the eastern part of Balochistan into British Balochistan and Balochistan States, making the region strategically important.
Colonial Disregard and Lack of Reforms
Under British rule, Balochistan was denied the benefits of reforms that were being introduced in other parts of British India. While implementing reforms in provinces like Punjab and Bengal, authorities never granted Balochistan the status of a province, despite it being a separate administrative unit. Instead, it was managed by an Agent to the Governor-General, implying that the region did not enjoy the reforms granted to other parts of India.
This lack of attention to Balochistan’s needs did not go unnoticed. Quaid-i-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, who led the Indian independence movement, actively recognized the challenges faced by the people of Balochistan. In his famous “Fourteen Points,” Jinnah demanded bringing Balochistan in line with the other provinces of India to ensure the region’s political and economic inclusion.
The Rise of Political Expression and the Muslim League’s Role
Stringent controls on political expression in Balochistan during the late 1920s severely restricted the people’s freedom to voice their political opinions. At this time, the Muslim League emerged as a major political force advocating for Balochistan’s rights. Qazi Isa, a young lawyer, laid the foundations of the Muslim League in Balochistan after meeting Quaid-i-Azam in 1938 and taking up the mantle of organizing the party in the region.
In 1934, Jinnah visited Balochistan and spent two months in the region, reinforcing the connection between Balochistan and the All India Muslim League. During a public conference in Quetta, Qazi Isa made an emotional gesture, presenting Jinnah with a sword reportedly belonging to Ahmed Shah Abdali. This symbolized the strong ties between Balochistan and the vision of a united Muslim India under Jinnah’s leadership.
Balochistan’s Vital Role in Pakistan’s Formation
As Pakistan’s creation became imminent in 1947, Balochistan’s future remained uncertain. The people of the region, despite the challenges, had been active in the political process. The Shahi Jirga of Balochistan held a referendum on June 30, 1947, to decide the region’s affiliation. To the surprise of the Congress, 54 members of the Shahi Jirga and Quetta Municipality voted in favor of joining Pakistan.
While the states of Lasbela, Kharan, and Makran swiftly joined Pakistan, the Khan of Kalat, the ruler of a prominent Baloch state, delayed his decision. However, after intense pressure and the unfolding political scenario, Khan Mir Ahmed Yar Khan of Kalat signed the letter of accession with Pakistan on March 27, 1948, officially making Balochistan part of the new country. This decision dismissed the propaganda spread by Indian authorities regarding Kalat’s accession to Pakistan and ended the controversy surrounding the issue.
Gwadar: A Strategic Addition to Pakistan
Balochistan’s importance did not end with its accession to Pakistan. In 1958, the region witnessed a significant territorial change when Pakistan purchased Gwadar from Oman. The acquisition of the 15,210 square kilometer coastal enclave was made possible through the efforts of Prime Minister Feroz Khan Noon and Sultan Said bin Taimur of Oman. Gwadar officially became part of Pakistan on December 8, 1958, marking another critical step in the integration of Balochistan into the fabric of Pakistan.
Balochistan’s journey from colonial subjugation to becoming an integral part of Pakistan was a tumultuous one. The region’s political struggle and the leadership of figures like Quaid-i-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, Qazi Isa, and Khan of Kalat played pivotal roles in shaping its future. Today, Balochistan remains a vital and vibrant part of Pakistan, contributing to its geopolitical importance and national identity
