Balochistan Chief Minister Mir Sarfraz Bugti on Saturday ruled out negotiations with armed groups involved in violence, saying the government remains ready to engage with political stakeholders through democratic and constitutional channels.
Speaking at a special lecture hosted by the Islamabad Policy Research Institute (IPRI), Bugti said political issues should be resolved through dialogue and democratic processes, but there could be no talks with those involved in armed activities and the killing of innocent people.
“The government is always ready to talk to political people, but negotiations cannot be held with those who take up arms,” he said, adding that the state’s writ and citizens’ security were non-negotiable.
‘Government Ready for Political Dialogue, Not Violence’
He emphasized that the province’s challenges cannot be understood through isolated incidents or one-sided narratives, adding that sustainable solutions lie in effective governance, merit-based systems, political inclusion, youth empowerment, economic development and the enforcement of the state’s writ.
Political Issues Must Be Addressed Through Political Process
Mir Sarfraz Bugti said democratic and constitutional mechanisms already exist for resolving political grievances.
“There is a political process for addressing political issues, and the government is always ready to engage with political people,” he said.
However, he stressed that negotiations with individuals involved in violence and armed activities were not possible.
“The state’s writ and the protection of citizens cannot be compromised. At the same time, all democratic avenues for political disagreement and problem-solving remain open within the framework of the Constitution and law,” he added.
Balochistan’s History Must Be Viewed Through Authentic Records
The chief minister said Balochistan possesses a rich civilizational history stretching back thousands of years, with Mehrgarh serving as evidence of the region’s ancient cultural significance.
He noted that the province has experienced various political and administrative systems over different historical periods, including tribal structures, the Khanate of Kalat, British rule and Pakistan’s constitutional framework.
Bugti stressed that historical issues should be examined through authentic documents and credible references rather than emotional or one-sided narratives.
He specifically highlighted the need to study important historical developments, including Balochistan’s accession to Pakistan, through documented evidence and historical records.
Poverty Alone Does Not Explain Violence
Discussing the province’s contemporary challenges, the chief minister said underdevelopment should not be viewed as the sole reason behind unrest.
He noted that development disparities exist in many regions across Pakistan and the world, but such conditions cannot justify violence or the killing of innocent civilians.
“Facts must be separated from perceptions, and current realities should be assessed based on ground realities,” he said.
Government Focusing on Youth, Education and Merit
Bugti said bridging the gap between the state and young people is one of the government’s key priorities.
He stated that the provincial government is actively engaging youth and incorporating their concerns into policymaking.
Highlighting recent reforms, he said the government has introduced 100 percent merit-based AI-assisted recruitment, restored thousands of non-functional schools, worked to bring out-of-school children back into classrooms, and established new schools and classrooms across the province.
The chief minister added that nearly 17,000 teachers have been recruited on merit-based contracts, while efforts are also underway to expand healthcare services and create opportunities for women and young people.
Peace and Development Go Hand in Hand
Mir Sarfraz Bugti said peace and development are inseparable and that the government is simultaneously pursuing security and socio-economic reforms.
He said authorities are strengthening police and law enforcement institutions through modern policing methods, intelligence-based operations, effective prosecution mechanisms and improved inter-agency coordination.
“At the same time, we are working to create an environment where young people choose education, employment and constructive activities instead of violence,” he said.
Sustainable Solution Lies in Democracy and Governance
The chief minister emphasized that national discussions on Balochistan should be based on research, facts and historical evidence so that policymaking reflects ground realities rather than misconceptions.
He concluded that the long-term solution to Balochistan’s challenges lies in a combination of constitutional governance, democratic politics, quality education, economic opportunities, peace and effective administration.
“Understanding the past correctly, realistically assessing present challenges and developing a shared strategy for the future can lead Balochistan towards peace, stability and prosperity,” he said.
