Archive · 20 Jul 2026
Balochistan Conflict: Roots, Resources, and Repression
Balochistan, a province in Pakistan, has been facing conflict for a long time.
The problem started when the region was forced to join Pakistan in 1948.
The Baloch people, who are different in culture and ethnicity, feel they are not getting the benefits of their natural resources like gas and minerals.
Big projects by China and the U.S. have made things worse.
Some Baloch people want independence, while others want more control over their region.
The Pakistani government says everything is fine, but there are protests and military operations happening.
Many people have disappeared, and no one knows where they are.
It's a complicated situation with lots of different opinions.
Family members of 27 policemen killed in Balochistan protested for 10 days, demanding a judicial commission to investigate the attacks.
Operation Shaban was launched, resulting in the deaths of 129 alleged terrorists since July 5, according to Pakistani authorities.
Balochistan's conflict roots date back to the 1948 accession of Kalat to Pakistan, which Baloch nationalists consider illegitimate.
Balochistan is rich in natural resources, but the Baloch people feel they have not benefited from them, opposing foreign exploitation.
The Pakistani government dismisses claims of widespread discontent, highlighting Baloch participation in national institutions and alleging Indian support for militants.
- Who
- Baloch nationalists, Pakistani government, Chinese investors, Indian government (alleged support for militants)
- What
- Conflict and insurgency in Balochistan, protests, military operations, and allegations of human rights abuses
- When
- Ongoing since 1948, recent protests in July 2024
- Where
- Balochistan, Pakistan
- Why
- Disagreement over Kalat's accession, ethnic differences, control over natural resources, and foreign investment projects
Baloch Nationalists
Pakistani Government
Accession of Kalat
Baloch Nationalists
Baloch nationalists view the accession of Kalat to Pakistan as illegitimate and a foundational grievance.
Pakistani Government
Pakistan considers the accession of Kalat final and legal.
Natural Resources
Baloch Nationalists
Baloch people believe they have not benefited from the natural wealth of their state and oppose foreign exploitation.
Pakistani Government
The Pakistani government dismisses claims of widespread discontent and highlights the participation of Baloch people in national institutions.
Militant Support
Baloch Nationalists
Baloch militants claim to fight for greater autonomy or independence, targeting state and army-linked entities.
Pakistani Government
Pakistan alleges that militant groups receive support from India, which India rejects.
- Date of Protest
- July 2024
- Number of Policemen Killed
- 27
- Number of Civilians Killed
- 5
- Operation Shaban Casualties
- 129 alleged terrorists killed
- Balochistan's Resources
- Copper, gold, natural gas
- Major Projects
- Gwadar port, Saindak mine, Reko Diq mine
- Disappeared People
- Over 5,000 alleged disappearances