Bugti offers militants rehabilitation, warns of continued crackdown

Balochistan Chief Minister Sarfraz Ahmed Bugti on Friday announced that the provincial

QUETTA: Balochistan Chief Minister Sarfraz Ahmed Bugti on Friday announced that the provincial government is ready to hold political dialogue with those willing to abandon violence, while making it clear that security operations against armed militant groups will continue until peace is restored.

Speaking at the passing-out parade of the Anti-Terrorism Force’s 20th basic training course in Quetta, the chief minister said individuals who surrender and renounce militancy would be given an opportunity to rebuild their lives through a comprehensive rehabilitation programme.

Under the government’s reintegration plan, former militants will be offered government employment, educational opportunities for their children and access to healthcare facilities to help them become productive members of society. He said the initiative aims to encourage peaceful participation in the province’s development.

However, Bugti warned that those who continue armed activities would face firm action. He said the provincial government, Pakistan Army, Frontier Corps, police, Counter Terrorism Department and Anti-Terrorism Force were working together to eliminate terrorism and restore lasting peace across Balochistan.

Referring to the recent rise in militant attacks, the chief minister acknowledged that the province’s security challenges had intensified in recent years but expressed confidence that ongoing counterterrorism operations would defeat militant groups.

Bugti also urged political leaders to avoid linking political disagreements with acts of terrorism. While criticism of the government was part of the democratic process, he said attacks on the country’s security forces should not be justified or politicised.

Addressing the newly graduated ATF personnel, the chief minister praised their commitment to national service and described them as guardians responsible for protecting the people and maintaining peace. He added that the government was reviewing measures to further strengthen the professional training of security personnel to meet emerging security challenges.

The chief minister also announced Rs150 million for improving the Anti-Terrorism Force training school’s infrastructure and highlighted recent steps taken to enhance benefits and welfare packages for police personnel and the families of martyred officers, reaffirming the government’s commitment to strengthening law enforcement institutions.