Govt withdraws 89 cases against 150 political
leaders including Barahamdagh Bugti
QUETTA (updated on: December 10, 2009, 00:07 PST): The implementation on 'Aghaz-e-Hakook-e-Balochistan' package has been started; Balochistan
Government has withdrawn 89 cases registered against more than 150 political leaders including Brahamdagh Bugti, Dr. Allah Nazar Baloch and Akhtar
Mengal, Aaj News reported.
The cases registered against Baloch leaders were withdrawn on the orders of Prime Minister Syed Yousuf Raza Gilani, cases withdrawal decision was
taken under "Aghaz-e-Hakook-e-Balochistan" package.
Those who benefited from the decision include Baramdagh Bugti, Akhtar Mengal, Jamil Bugti, Dr. Allah Nazar Baloch, Sadiq Raisani, Jalil Raki, Abdul
Hayee Baloch and Dr. Abdul Hakeem Baloch.
Government withdraws 89 cases against Baloch leaders
QUETTA (December 10 2009): The Balochistan government has withdrawn 89 cases registered against leaders and activists of various nationalist
political organisations on political grounds, official sources said Wednesday. The sources further said that the provincial Home Department received
orders from the CM House regarding withdrawal of the cases.
Those who benefited from the decision include Nawabzada Bramdagh Bugti, Chief of Baloch Republican Party (BRP) and the grand son of late Nawab
Akbar Khan Bugti, Sardar Akhtar Jan Mengal President Balochistan National Party, Dr Abdul Hayee Baloch former President National Party, Nawabzada
Jamil Akbar Bugti son of late Nawab Akbar Khan Bugti, Hamid Achakzai of Pashtunkhwa Milli Awami Party, Dr Hakim Lehri (BRP), Jalil Raki (BRP), Sadiq
Raisani advocate (BRP), Sangat Sana Baloch (BRP), former MPA Abdul Rahim Ziaratwal (PMAP), Lala Rauf (PMAP), Sohail Rajput advocate (JWP), Malik
Abdul Wali Kakar (BNP-Mengal), Agha Hasan Baloch BNP-Mengal), Shahzeb Baloch (BSO), Asif Baloch (BSO) and Dr Allah Nazar Baloch.
http://www.brecorder.com/
Parliament to start debate on Balochistan package today
NAVEED BUTT
ISLAMABAD (December 07 2009): A comprehensive debate will be started on 'Aghaz-e-Haqooq-Balochistan' package in the joint sitting of the Parliament
on Monday. The 'Aghaz-e-Haqooq-Balochistan' package was presented by the present government in the last joint session of the Parliament on
November 24.
It was presented by PPP Senator Raza Rabbani, who headed the seven-member parliamentary committee. The package was finalised after consultation
with political leaderships of other major parties in the Parliament and other stakeholders.
There would be two sittings daily--morning and evening--of the joint session and all parliamentary parties, including nationalist parties of Balochistan,
would participate in the debate and present their comments on the package.
The parliamentarians of Balochistan have already expressed their reservations on the package when it was placed in joint session of the parliament on
two counts. First, the failure of the government to take them on board with respect to the package; and second, failure to act on their longstanding
demands, notably cessation of military operation and release of missing persons, as a confidence building measure prior to the announcement of yet
another set of so-called promises.
Minister for Parliamentary Affairs Dr Babar Awan said while talking to Business Recorder that the duration of the session would depend entirely on the
parliamentarians. He said that the house would remain in session as long as the members would want. He said that the House would take up only one-
point agenda of Balochistan Package.
The package relates solely to administrative and economic affairs while the issues of provincial autonomy and various amendments in the Constitution
are being addressed in a Special Committee of the Parliament on Constitutional Reforms which represents all shades of political opinion in the
Parliament.
The provisions of the constitution on provincial autonomy including deletion of the Concurrent List from Fourth Schedule of the Constitution, police order,
2002 and the Balochistan Local Government Ordinance 2001 from the sixth schedule of the Constitution and others are being addressed in the
Committee. In the package, the federal government pledged to immediately release all political workers, except those charged under heinous crimes.
Similarly, it was pledged that a commission would be constituted in respect of missing persons. The names of missing persons would be identified and
those persons against whom there are no charges will be released and those who are charged with a crime will be brought before a court of competent
jurisdiction within seven days for trial.
When contacted, Senator Hasil Khan Bizenjo said that the Federal Government had given assurance to Balochistan nationalist parties that it would begin
implementing the package a day after it was announced but so far the package has not been implemented.
"The government claims that it has released 25 missing persons, but according to my information there are 12 people who were recovered," he said.
He said that Interior Minister Rehman Malik has said that there were 1000 missing persons of Balochistan but according to the report of Human Right
Commission the figure is 2000.
"There is no need for any debate on Balochistan package, but it is critical to implement it. The package is already prepared with the consultation of
Balochistan Parliamentarians and other stakeholders," he said.
He claimed that the government does not have the capacity to implement the package. It took this government two years just to prepare the package and
it is not able to implement it, he claimed.
Senator Engineer Muhammad Hamayun Mandokhel said that the PPP government should implement the package as early as possible. He said that the
government could restore confidence by taking practical measures for implementing the package. This would be the first step towards giving rights to the
people of Balochistan.
http://www.brecorder.com/
Pak ministers divided on 'India's role' in Baloch
The Pakistani leadership appeared divided over the issue of "Indian interference in Balochistan" on Wednesday, with Premier Yousuf Gilani saying
evidence would be provided "at the necessary forum" while Pakistani foreign minister cautioning that information was still "insufficient".
Prime Minister Gilani said he had told his Indian counterpart Manmohan Singh [ Images ] during their meeting at Sharm el-Sheikh in July that there is
"Indian interference in Balochistan" and that Singh had then included the issue in the joint statement.
The government has received numerous reports from the foreign and interior ministries about "foreign interference" in Balochistan, he said.
This information could be presented "when necessary and at the necessary forum", he added.
"We have to decide when, where and at what time the evidence is to be presented," Gilani said addressing a joint sitting of the two houses of parliament
at the end of a debate on a new development package for Balochistan.
Meanwhile, speaking to reporters in his hometown Multan, Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi struck a note of caution and said more information
is needed to argue Pakistan's point of view on Indian interference in the country.
"The possibility that there are elements who want to destabilise the country cannot be ruled out. But information received by us in this regard is
insufficient.
"We need more information and material to plausibly argue our case," Qureshi said.
"We will have to be cautious and careful. If it is challenged in a court of law, then we will have to ensure that it meets its logical end," he said.
Several Pakistani leaders, including Qureshi and Interior Minister Rehman Malik [ Images ], have earlier claimed the government has evidence that India
[ Images ] is fomenting unrest in Balochistan and the tribal areas bordering Afghanistan.
India has dismissed these allegations and said Pakistan has nothing to fear from it.
During his address, Gilani also reiterated his offer of talks with dissident Baloch nationalist leaders and announced that army troops deployed in
Balochistan would be replaced with the paramilitary Frontier Corps.
The Frontier Corps is now replacing the army and, as a first step, the army has been withdrawn from Kohlu cantonment. He said his government would
do all within its means to end years of deprivation and injustice in the province.
Orders for payment of dues amounting to Rs 120 billion for Balochistan have also been issued, he added.
"We have never shied away from meeting any stakeholder," Gilani said, adding that that he was ready to personally visit and meet any Baloch political
leader for greater reconciliation in the larger interest of Pakistan.
Baloch nationalist groups have been waging a violent campaign for the past few years, demanding more autonomy and a greater say in decision-
making. Scores of people have died in attacks blamed on Baloch insurgent groups.
http://news.rediff.com/
Govt withdraws 89 cases against 150 political leaders including
Barahamdagh Bugti
QUETTA (updated on: December 10, 2009, 00:07 PST): The implementation on 'Aghaz-e-Hakook-e-Balochistan' package has been started; Balochistan
Government has withdrawn 89 cases registered against more than 150 political leaders including Brahamdagh Bugti, Dr. Allah Nazar Baloch and Akhtar
Mengal, Aaj News reported.
The cases registered against Baloch leaders were withdrawn on the orders of Prime Minister Syed Yousuf Raza Gilani, cases withdrawal decision was
taken under "Aghaz-e-Hakook-e-Balochistan" package.
Those who benefited from the decision include Baramdagh Bugti, Akhtar Mengal, Jamil Bugti, Dr. Allah Nazar Baloch, Sadiq Raisani, Jalil Raki, Abdul
Hayee Baloch and Dr. Abdul Hakeem Baloch.
Gilani orders withdrawal of army from Balochistan
Repalcing army with FC makes no difference, because there is no difference between Army and Frontier corps. Both are same and both have been
involved in killing and terrorizing Baloch people. This is just another trick that Mr. Gilani is playing on behalf of Paki military to pacify Baloch people but no
Baloch will buy such cheap attempts.
ISLAMABAD, Dec 9 (APP): Prime Minister Syed Yusuf Raza Gilani on Wednesday reiterating offer to hold talks with dissident Baloch leaders announced
replacement of army with the FC, addressing a long standing demand of the people. Addressing the joint sitting of the parliament at the end of a two day
debate on according more rights to Balochistan, Gilani said the government will do all within its means to end years of deprivation and injustices to the
province.
Gilani announced end of seven checkposts in the province and said the checkposts have been closed at Othal, Lehri, Dera Allah Yar, Sheikh Wasil,
Gawal, Zero Point and Islamzai.
He said on his directive FC was now replacing the army and as a first step army has been withdrawan from Kohlu cantonment. He said a notification in
this regard has been issued.
He said measures were being taken to place the FC under the direct control of the Chief Minister.
He pointed that soon FC will also be deployed at Sui and work was underway to add three new wings. He said the border along Mund would be opened.
Announcing a series of measures Gilani said orders for payment of dues amounting to Rs 120 billion for Balochistan have been issued. He said it was
just the start and not the end to make Pakistan strong and prosperous.
“We have never shied from meeting any stakeholder,” Gilani said and added that he was ready to personally visit and meet any political leader, whether
young or old, at their place, for greater reconciliation in the larger interest of the nation.
The prime minister urged the young Baloch to join hands with the government in making their province and Pakistan strong. He said “with confidence
and sincerity we will make it a strong nation that will foil attempts of all enemies.” He said the B areas were also being converted into A areas.
Gilani termed the making of the Aghaz e Haqooq e Balochistan as a “difficult task” and said he was grateful to Almighty Allah to guide and give him
strength in providing relief to the people of Balochistan. He said it was government’s determination that the implementation on the Balochistan package
has started and said all resolutions passed by the Balochistan assembly since 2002 have been accommodated in the set of proposals.
The prime minister said when the government took over it was informed that around 8,000 people were missing. However after a thorough probe it was
found that the actual number was only 992. He said of these, 262 have returned to their homes so far and other innocent will also return soon, he added.
He asked the Balochistan government to release a list of the missing people through media.
He said under the package all political workers will be released that are not involved in any serious crimes. He said last year, 83 cases were withdrawn
and 89 more would be withdrawn. He announced that 10,000 youth of Balochistan would be provided jobs, besides government jobs will be provided to
5,000 graduates which will be besides the regular quota.
Gilani announced lowering of educational qualification for appointment in Coast Guards from matriculation to class 8 to enable more young Baloch join
the service.
He said Senate Standing committee will monitor and ensure implementation of the decisions taken for Balochistan. Gilani said he has directed payment
of Rs one billion each for the flood affectees, the Internally Displaced People.
Gilani was appreciative of all parliamentarians and in particular mentioned President and PPP co chairperson Asif Ali Zardari, leader of PML N Mian
Nawaz Sharif, PML Q leader Ch. Shujaat Hussain, PML F leader Pir Pagaro, MQM leader Altaf Hussai and other political leaders for their support.
Regarding foreign interference in Balochistan he said he was the first person from this house that spoke of Indian interference and was mentioned in
the joint statement after his talks with Manmohan Singh at Sharm el Sheikh.
“We will decide when and at which forum to provide such evidence,” Gilani told the joint sitting of the parliament.
http://thepakistaninewspaper.com/
Pakistan withdrawing troops from Balochistan
Rebels in Balochistan have been fighting the Pakistani troops since 2004.
Pakistan is withdrawing its troops from parts of the country's southwestern Balochistan province that has been rocked by ethnic unrest in recent years.
The withdrawal, which was ordered by Pakistani Prime Minister Yousuf Reza Gilani, started on Wednesday morning.
Islamabad says the move is part of a Balochistan Rights Initiative package.
However, the head of a Pakistani opposition political party says Baloch leaders have rejected the package altogether.
The Chairman of the Sindh Taraqi Pasand Party (STP) accuses Islamabad of being hypocritical.
Qadir Magsi says the Pakistani government is supporting terrorists while at the same time it is launching operations against militants.
In 2004, the Baloch rebels took up arms against the federal government, demanding autonomy for the province and greater shares from the region's
natural resources.
http://www.presstv.ir/
Gilani offers to visit elder Baloch leaders
By Raja Asghar
ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani on Wednesday offered to visit Balochistan’s dissident ‘elder politicians’ and announced decisions to
release all political workers not involved in heinous crimes and pullout of troops from two hotspots as some of the first steps to implement a government
package to pacify the troubled province.
He also called upon young Baloch dissidents — some of whom have taken up arms in a low-intensity insurgency — to join the national mainstream and
announced more job opportunities for the youth and abolition of some road checkposts of security agencies as he wound up a two-day debate in a joint
sitting of the two houses of parliament on a 39-point package unveiled last month.
While voicing his hope that estranged Baloch political leaders and workers would accept a dialogue offer he made while announcing the package to a
similar joint sitting on Nov 24, the prime minister said in a prepared Urdu speech: ‘I am prepared to go to the homes of elder politicians in pursuing the
path of understanding and reconciliation.’
He did not specify these ‘elder’ politicians, but he seemed to be referring to two nationalist tribal chieftains — former provincial chief minister Ataullah
Khan Mengal and former National Assembly member Khair Bakhsh Marri — who had long been at odds with the centre and are widely regarded as the
main inspiration for Baloch dissidents, some of whom seek more provincial autonomy and control over the natural resources of the country’s largest but
least-populated province but some — possibly closer to hardliner Marri — dreaming of a future outside the Pakistani federation.
‘I will also ask the estranged youth that they join the national mainstream,’ said Mr Gilani, whose speech was repeatedly cheered with desk-thumping by
lawmakers from the PPP-led ruling coalition and sometimes by opposition as well.
Army pullout
Referring to a series of administrative measures proposed by the package prepared by a parliamentary committee headed by PPP senator Raza
Rabbani, the prime minister said army had been withdrawn from Kohlu cantonment on Wednesday on his orders and replaced by the paramilitary
Frontier Corps (FC) and that he had also issued orders for the replacement of army by FC soon at Sui, which has the country’s main gas field located in
the troubled Dera Bugti district and had been a major trouble spot before and after the killing of former provincial governor Akbar Khan Bugti.
He said the process had begun to create three FC ‘wings’ in which Baloch youth would be employed.
The prime minister said that while a parliamentary committee on constitutional reforms was making progress on the issue of provincial autonomy of
which it would ‘soon’ inform the house, ‘our government has taken solid steps in connection with political matters (and) decided to release all political
workers who are not involved in any other heinous crime’.
The prime minister’s announcement indicated he had not been able to accept a demand made by several members from both the opposition and the
ruling alliance to grant a general amnesty for Balochistan without the proviso of involvement in ‘heinous crimes’, an allegation often levelled against
dissidents.
Mr Gilani thanked leaders of opposition parties for their cooperation in the task, which was an ‘effort we made not only to solve problems with realism but
also make arrangements so there is no scope for their recurrence in the future’.
While repeating his offer of what he called ‘the hand of friendship to estranged Baloch brothers’ in his Nov 24 speech, he engaged in some rhetoric to
say : ‘I am sure if we hold each other’s hands with confidence and sincerity, we will prove a nation like an impregnable wall against which any colliding
power will crash into pieces.’
The prime minister announced the reopening of the Mand border point with Iran, saying this was being done in accordance with the wishes of the Baloch
people, and abolition of seven checkposts at Othal, Lehri, Sheela Bagh, Gawal Islamzai, Zero point Turbat on the coastal highway and Sheikh Wasal.
Missing persons
He said investigations by ‘our institutions’ had put the number of Baloch ‘missing persons’ allegedly picked up by intelligence agencies at 992 and that
262 of them had already returned to their homes while the ‘remaining all such innocent people also will, God-willing, reunite with their kith and kin soon’.
Necessary process has also begun to inquire into death of Nawab Akbar Bugti and the murder of political workers Balach Marri, Ghulam Mohammad,
Lala Munir and Munir Ahmad, he said.
Some other salient points of the prime minister speech are:
- Decision taken to review the role of federal agencies in Balochistan while FC replaces army.
- The policy to convert ‘B’ areas to ‘A’ areas being reviewed and steps being taken to bring law-enforcing role of the FC under the provincial chief minister.
- An amount of one billion rupees released for the internally displaced persons of Dera Bugti.
- Orders issued for the payment of Rs120 billion arrears of gas development surcharge from 1954 to 1991 in 12 years.
- Balochistan representatives appointed on PSO and OGDC boards while the appointment of the province’s representatives on the boards of two other
companies to be made in the next two weeks.
- The government to provide employment to every graduate from Balochistan while implementation of the announcement of 5,000 jobs in addition to the
provincial quota has begun, government to arrange training and guidance for Baloch citizens for jobs abroad and locals to be given employment in
coastguard for which minimum qualification has been reduced to middle from matriculation.
- Under Youth Internship programme, 10,000 Baloch youths to be employed.
Indian interference
At the end of his speech, before the sitting was prorogued by a presidential order, the prime minister dismissed some opposition members’ allegations
of contradictions between the statements of interior and foreign ministries about foreign interference in Balochistan.
He recalled raising the issue of alleged Indian interference with Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh during their meeting at the Egyptian resort of
Sharm al-Sheikh earlier this year and its mention in a joint statement and said: ‘I assure (you) that we are prepared to present proofs we have about
interference in Balochistan to any forum and at any time as required.’
http://www.dawn.com/wps/
Pak's allegations of involvement in Baloch insurgency
discussed with India: Mullen
Washington, Dec.9 : US Joint Chiefs of Staff Chairman Admiral Mike Mullen has said that he has discussed Pakistan's allegations regarding India's
involvement in fanning insurgency in Balochistan with the Indian leadership.
Mullen told a private television channel here, that he has discussed Islamabad's reservations with both his former and present Indian counterparts,
including the Indian Army Chief General Deepak Kapoor, and the country's political leadership.
The top US military official said he has also held detailed discussions with Pakistan Chief of the Army Staff General Ashfaq Parvez Kayani over the issue,
The Nation reports.
Commenting on the heightened tension between India and Pakistan, Mullen said the resolution of the Kashmir issue, to a large extent, would help
establishing peace and stabilise the region.
Responding to a query, Mullen said Washington is concerned about the killings of US citizens by the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), and added that
both the Taliban and Al-Qaeda were aiding each other in the Pak-Afghan border region.
http://www.calcuttanews.net/story/575377
PML-N forwards recommendations on Balochistan to PM
* Party to cooperate with government if its proposals are included in recommended package
By Rana Kashif
Sunday, December 06, 2009
LAHORE: The Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) has finalised and forwarded to the prime minister a number of proposals on the Balochistan
package for presentation in the National Assembly (NA) when parliament takes up the draft for a formal debate.
Party sources told Daily Times on Saturday that the PML-N would be pressing hard for the implementation of its proposals. The party has also decided to
cooperate with the government in case its proposals are included in the recommended package, sources said, adding that the party was unlikely to
support the package until all stakeholders were taken on board.
Besides this, the PML-N also wants the government to initiate dialogue with Baloch nationalist parties at the federal and provincial levels. The PML-N
has finalised the following recommendations for inclusion in the Balochistan package.
1. Registration of an FIR against former president Gen (r) Pervez Musharraf for the murder of Nawab Akbar Khan Bugti.
2. The immediate constitution of a judicial commission comprising of judges of the Balochistan High Court to investigate the recent killing of Baloch
leaders Ghulam Muhammad Baloch, Sher Muhammad Baloch and Lala Munir Baloch. The commission should also investigate the murder of Balach
Marri.
3. An independent commission consisting of high court judges should compile a list of missing persons or alternatively, and subject to law, the PML-N
may itself become party in the Supreme Court case regarding the missing persons.
4. All detained people be allowed immediate, open and fair trials. If found innocent, they must be released and cases quashed.
5. Rehabilitation of displaced families should be carried out on an emergency basis. Internally displaced persons (IDPs) have moved out of Bugti and
Marri areas to Jafferabad, Naseerabad and other districts of Balochistan, Sindh and Punjab.
6. An immediate end to the army operation in Balochistan.
7. Political involvement of intelligence agencies should be restricted only to counter foreign interference and assistance, both monetary and physical, of
anti-Pakistan forces.
8. Creation of employment on a large scale both in the government and private sectors. The provincial government should be asked to allocate jobs for
the Baloch people. The federal government should also immediately restore the agreed share of Balochistan in the Centre.
9. There are serious and complex issues raised by the people of Balochistan [that need addressing]. These issues concern both the federal and
provincial governments, and include issues like provincial autonomy, distribution of national resources on the basis of land, ownership of the Gwadar
Port, usage of water resources, communications and gas royalty and distribution.
http://www.pakistanlink.com/
Gilani orders withdrawal of army from Balochistan
ISLAMABAD, Dec 9 (APP): Prime Minister Syed Yusuf Raza Gilani on Wednesday reiterating offer to hold talks with dissident Baloch leaders announced
replacement of army with the FC, addressing a long standing demand of the people. Addressing the joint sitting of the parliament at the end of a two day
debate on according more rights to Balochistan, Gilani said the government will do all within its means to end years of deprivation and injustices to the
province.
Gilani announced end of seven checkposts in the province and said the checkposts have been closed at Othal, Lehri, Dera Allah Yar, Sheikh Wasil,
Gawal, Zero Point and Islamzai.
He said on his directive FC was now replacing the army and as a first step army has been withdrawan from Kohlu cantonment. He said a notification in
this regard has been issued.
He said measures were being taken to place the FC under the direct control of the Chief Minister.
He pointed that soon FC will also be deployed at Sui and work was underway to add three new wings. He said the border along Mund would be opened.
Announcing a series of measures Gilani said orders for payment of dues amounting to Rs 120 billion for Balochistan have been issued. He said it was
just the start and not the end to make Pakistan strong and prosperous.
“We have never shied from meeting any stakeholder,” Gilani said and added that he was ready to personally visit and meet any political leader, whether
young or old, at their place, for greater reconciliation in the larger interest of the nation.
The prime minister urged the young Baloch to join hands with the government in making their province and Pakistan strong. He said “with confidence
and sincerity we will make it a strong nation that will foil attempts of all enemies.” He said the B areas were also being converted into A areas.
Gilani termed the making of the Aghaz e Haqooq e Balochistan as a “difficult task” and said he was grateful to Almighty Allah to guide and give him
strength in providing relief to the people of Balochistan. He said it was government’s determination that the implementation on the Balochistan package
has started and said all resolutions passed by the Balochistan assembly since 2002 have been accommodated in the set of proposals.
The prime minister said when the government took over it was informed that around 8,000 people were missing. However after a thorough probe it was
found that the actual number was only 992. He said of these, 262 have returned to their homes so far and other innocent will also return soon, he added.
He asked the Balochistan government to release a list of the missing people through media.
He said under the package all political workers will be released that are not involved in any serious crimes. He said last year, 83 cases were withdrawn
and 89 more would be withdrawn. He announced that 10,000 youth of Balochistan would be provided jobs, besides government jobs will be provided to
5,000 graduates which will be besides the regular quota.
Gilani announced lowering of educational qualification for appointment in Coast Guards from matriculation to class 8 to enable more young Baloch join
the service.
He said Senate Standing committee will monitor and ensure implementation of the decisions taken for Balochistan. Gilani said he has directed payment
of Rs one billion each for the flood affectees, the Internally Displaced People.
Gilani was appreciative of all parliamentarians and in particular mentioned President and PPP co chairperson Asif Ali Zardari, leader of PML N Mian
Nawaz Sharif, PML Q leader Ch. Shujaat Hussain, PML F leader Pir Pagaro, MQM leader Altaf Hussai and other political leaders for their support.
Regarding foreign interference in Balochistan he said he was the first person from this house that spoke of Indian interference and was mentioned in
the joint statement after his talks with Manmohan Singh at Sharm el Sheikh.
“We will decide when and at which forum to provide such evidence,” Gilani told the joint sitting of the parliament.
http://thepakistaninewspaper.com/
PM orders troops withdrawal from Sui
Wednesday, 9 Dec, 2009 8:42 pm
ISLAMABAD : Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani has said the orders of withdrawal of troops from Sui after Kohlu in Balochistan have been issued. Aaj
News reported on Wednesday.
Addressing joint session of the parliament on Wednesday Gilani said Frontier Constabulary will replace the troops in Balochistan. The government will
deal in to killings of veteran Baloch leader Nawab Akbar Bugti and Mir Baloch Marri.
He said 10000 Baloch youths will get jobs under youth program.
Prime Minister Gilani said that the government was keen to engage all exile leaders of Balochistan in dialogue.
Legislators from both Houses of the Parliament on Wednesday called for practical steps to overcome sense of deprivation among the people of
Balochistan when the Joint Sitting of the Parliament resumed debate on the Aghaz-e-Hakook-e-Balochistan package.
Initiating the day, Senator Dr Abdul Malik said that the government should talk with rebel Bugti and Marri leaders as this was key to success of the efforts
to find long-lasting solution of the problem.
He termed former president Musharraf, directly responsible for the murder of veteran politician Nawab Akbar Bugti and demanded his trial. He alleged
that the small nationalities were threatened with loss of their identity in the federation. Dr Malik accused that Balochistan government was involved in
corruption and the common Balochis problems were not being resolved, which was adding to their sense of deprivation.
Taking part in the discussion Senator Jan Muhammad Jamali said that Balochistan issue was 62-year old problem and a big heart was needed to settle
the matter.
Jamali said that Zulfikar Ali Bhutto was the great statesman and the Western world conspired to eliminate him. He was of the opinion that time for
debates was over and if practical steps were not taken now, it would be too late then.
Jan Jamali proposed that the Upper House of the Parliament should be strengthened and it should be given fiscal powers. Besides he called for holding
direct elections for the Senators.
He advised the government to hold talks with nationalist leader Khair Bux Marri and Bramdag Bugti,otherwise the government efforts would fail to bear
fruit.
While taking part in the discussion, Senator Abdul Rahim Mandokhail said that the present package was proof of the good intentions of the government.
Minister of State for Industry and Production, Dr. Aytullah Durrani called for need of holding talks with nationalist leader Khair Bux Marri and Bramdag
Bugti and offered his services in this regard to hold talks with them on behalf of the government. This would be a key to success of the efforts to find long-
lasting solution of the problems.
http://thepakistaninewspaper.com/news_detail.php?id=15322
Not a shred of evidence of Indian involvement in
Balochistan: Govt
Saturday 5th December, 2009 (ANI)
New Delhi, Dec.5 : Rubbishing Pakistan's accusations of Indian involvement in Balochistan, Indian Foreign secretary Nirupama Rao on Saturday said
there was no evidence to substantiate the allegation.
"There is not a shred of evidence to Corroborate what the Pakistan authorities have been alleging about so called activities by India in Balochistan,"
Nirupama Rao said in the capital.
Taking umbrage to Pakistan's allegations Foreign Secretary further said: "Balochistan is an internal affair of Pakistan and it is not our habit, it is not our
policy to interfere in the internal affairs of neighboring countries."
India had also asked Pakistan to follow the same approach of non-interference.
Rao was reacting to the statement made by Pakistani Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani in which he has reportedly claimed that a dossier with evidence
of India fomenting trouble in Balochistan would be handed over to New Delhi at an appropriate time.
On Thursday, Pakistan Foreign Office spokesperson Abdul Basit said Indian elements remain present in Balochistan and Federally Administered Tribal
Areas (FATA).
Basit said the interior ministry had evidence to prove the presence and will make a sovereign decision of who to share it with.
Earlier Pakistani Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi had said that evidence of India's involvement in Balochistan would be disclosed through
diplomatic channels at the right time.
Reacting sharply to the charges, India on Thursday accused Pakistan of "fabricating evidence" and rejected as "unfounded" charges of fomenting
insurgency in Balochistan.
On Pakistan's repeated allegations, foreign minister S M Krishna told Rajya Sabha statements of the Pakistani foreign minister read together made it
evident that Islamabad was fabricating evidence (of India's alleged role in Balochistan), not even a shred of evidence has been received so far."
Pakistan is constantly hurling allegations on India for fomenting militancy in Balochistan through its consulates in Afghanistan. Whereas India has been
rejecting the charges and has maintained that these consulates are present in Afghanistan since 1950s and are involved in the consular activities.
Baloch nationalists, who are engaged in low intensity insurgency have time and again stated that India is not involved in militancy in the region and it is
the result Pakistan's ongoing exploitation and persecution of the province.
http://www.calcuttanews.net/story/573799
leaders including Barahamdagh Bugti
QUETTA (updated on: December 10, 2009, 00:07 PST): The implementation on 'Aghaz-e-Hakook-e-Balochistan' package has been started; Balochistan
Government has withdrawn 89 cases registered against more than 150 political leaders including Brahamdagh Bugti, Dr. Allah Nazar Baloch and Akhtar
Mengal, Aaj News reported.
The cases registered against Baloch leaders were withdrawn on the orders of Prime Minister Syed Yousuf Raza Gilani, cases withdrawal decision was
taken under "Aghaz-e-Hakook-e-Balochistan" package.
Those who benefited from the decision include Baramdagh Bugti, Akhtar Mengal, Jamil Bugti, Dr. Allah Nazar Baloch, Sadiq Raisani, Jalil Raki, Abdul
Hayee Baloch and Dr. Abdul Hakeem Baloch.
Government withdraws 89 cases against Baloch leaders
QUETTA (December 10 2009): The Balochistan government has withdrawn 89 cases registered against leaders and activists of various nationalist
political organisations on political grounds, official sources said Wednesday. The sources further said that the provincial Home Department received
orders from the CM House regarding withdrawal of the cases.
Those who benefited from the decision include Nawabzada Bramdagh Bugti, Chief of Baloch Republican Party (BRP) and the grand son of late Nawab
Akbar Khan Bugti, Sardar Akhtar Jan Mengal President Balochistan National Party, Dr Abdul Hayee Baloch former President National Party, Nawabzada
Jamil Akbar Bugti son of late Nawab Akbar Khan Bugti, Hamid Achakzai of Pashtunkhwa Milli Awami Party, Dr Hakim Lehri (BRP), Jalil Raki (BRP), Sadiq
Raisani advocate (BRP), Sangat Sana Baloch (BRP), former MPA Abdul Rahim Ziaratwal (PMAP), Lala Rauf (PMAP), Sohail Rajput advocate (JWP), Malik
Abdul Wali Kakar (BNP-Mengal), Agha Hasan Baloch BNP-Mengal), Shahzeb Baloch (BSO), Asif Baloch (BSO) and Dr Allah Nazar Baloch.
http://www.brecorder.com/
Parliament to start debate on Balochistan package today
NAVEED BUTT
ISLAMABAD (December 07 2009): A comprehensive debate will be started on 'Aghaz-e-Haqooq-Balochistan' package in the joint sitting of the Parliament
on Monday. The 'Aghaz-e-Haqooq-Balochistan' package was presented by the present government in the last joint session of the Parliament on
November 24.
It was presented by PPP Senator Raza Rabbani, who headed the seven-member parliamentary committee. The package was finalised after consultation
with political leaderships of other major parties in the Parliament and other stakeholders.
There would be two sittings daily--morning and evening--of the joint session and all parliamentary parties, including nationalist parties of Balochistan,
would participate in the debate and present their comments on the package.
The parliamentarians of Balochistan have already expressed their reservations on the package when it was placed in joint session of the parliament on
two counts. First, the failure of the government to take them on board with respect to the package; and second, failure to act on their longstanding
demands, notably cessation of military operation and release of missing persons, as a confidence building measure prior to the announcement of yet
another set of so-called promises.
Minister for Parliamentary Affairs Dr Babar Awan said while talking to Business Recorder that the duration of the session would depend entirely on the
parliamentarians. He said that the house would remain in session as long as the members would want. He said that the House would take up only one-
point agenda of Balochistan Package.
The package relates solely to administrative and economic affairs while the issues of provincial autonomy and various amendments in the Constitution
are being addressed in a Special Committee of the Parliament on Constitutional Reforms which represents all shades of political opinion in the
Parliament.
The provisions of the constitution on provincial autonomy including deletion of the Concurrent List from Fourth Schedule of the Constitution, police order,
2002 and the Balochistan Local Government Ordinance 2001 from the sixth schedule of the Constitution and others are being addressed in the
Committee. In the package, the federal government pledged to immediately release all political workers, except those charged under heinous crimes.
Similarly, it was pledged that a commission would be constituted in respect of missing persons. The names of missing persons would be identified and
those persons against whom there are no charges will be released and those who are charged with a crime will be brought before a court of competent
jurisdiction within seven days for trial.
When contacted, Senator Hasil Khan Bizenjo said that the Federal Government had given assurance to Balochistan nationalist parties that it would begin
implementing the package a day after it was announced but so far the package has not been implemented.
"The government claims that it has released 25 missing persons, but according to my information there are 12 people who were recovered," he said.
He said that Interior Minister Rehman Malik has said that there were 1000 missing persons of Balochistan but according to the report of Human Right
Commission the figure is 2000.
"There is no need for any debate on Balochistan package, but it is critical to implement it. The package is already prepared with the consultation of
Balochistan Parliamentarians and other stakeholders," he said.
He claimed that the government does not have the capacity to implement the package. It took this government two years just to prepare the package and
it is not able to implement it, he claimed.
Senator Engineer Muhammad Hamayun Mandokhel said that the PPP government should implement the package as early as possible. He said that the
government could restore confidence by taking practical measures for implementing the package. This would be the first step towards giving rights to the
people of Balochistan.
http://www.brecorder.com/
Pak ministers divided on 'India's role' in Baloch
The Pakistani leadership appeared divided over the issue of "Indian interference in Balochistan" on Wednesday, with Premier Yousuf Gilani saying
evidence would be provided "at the necessary forum" while Pakistani foreign minister cautioning that information was still "insufficient".
Prime Minister Gilani said he had told his Indian counterpart Manmohan Singh [ Images ] during their meeting at Sharm el-Sheikh in July that there is
"Indian interference in Balochistan" and that Singh had then included the issue in the joint statement.
The government has received numerous reports from the foreign and interior ministries about "foreign interference" in Balochistan, he said.
This information could be presented "when necessary and at the necessary forum", he added.
"We have to decide when, where and at what time the evidence is to be presented," Gilani said addressing a joint sitting of the two houses of parliament
at the end of a debate on a new development package for Balochistan.
Meanwhile, speaking to reporters in his hometown Multan, Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi struck a note of caution and said more information
is needed to argue Pakistan's point of view on Indian interference in the country.
"The possibility that there are elements who want to destabilise the country cannot be ruled out. But information received by us in this regard is
insufficient.
"We need more information and material to plausibly argue our case," Qureshi said.
"We will have to be cautious and careful. If it is challenged in a court of law, then we will have to ensure that it meets its logical end," he said.
Several Pakistani leaders, including Qureshi and Interior Minister Rehman Malik [ Images ], have earlier claimed the government has evidence that India
[ Images ] is fomenting unrest in Balochistan and the tribal areas bordering Afghanistan.
India has dismissed these allegations and said Pakistan has nothing to fear from it.
During his address, Gilani also reiterated his offer of talks with dissident Baloch nationalist leaders and announced that army troops deployed in
Balochistan would be replaced with the paramilitary Frontier Corps.
The Frontier Corps is now replacing the army and, as a first step, the army has been withdrawn from Kohlu cantonment. He said his government would
do all within its means to end years of deprivation and injustice in the province.
Orders for payment of dues amounting to Rs 120 billion for Balochistan have also been issued, he added.
"We have never shied away from meeting any stakeholder," Gilani said, adding that that he was ready to personally visit and meet any Baloch political
leader for greater reconciliation in the larger interest of Pakistan.
Baloch nationalist groups have been waging a violent campaign for the past few years, demanding more autonomy and a greater say in decision-
making. Scores of people have died in attacks blamed on Baloch insurgent groups.
http://news.rediff.com/
Govt withdraws 89 cases against 150 political leaders including
Barahamdagh Bugti
QUETTA (updated on: December 10, 2009, 00:07 PST): The implementation on 'Aghaz-e-Hakook-e-Balochistan' package has been started; Balochistan
Government has withdrawn 89 cases registered against more than 150 political leaders including Brahamdagh Bugti, Dr. Allah Nazar Baloch and Akhtar
Mengal, Aaj News reported.
The cases registered against Baloch leaders were withdrawn on the orders of Prime Minister Syed Yousuf Raza Gilani, cases withdrawal decision was
taken under "Aghaz-e-Hakook-e-Balochistan" package.
Those who benefited from the decision include Baramdagh Bugti, Akhtar Mengal, Jamil Bugti, Dr. Allah Nazar Baloch, Sadiq Raisani, Jalil Raki, Abdul
Hayee Baloch and Dr. Abdul Hakeem Baloch.
Gilani orders withdrawal of army from Balochistan
Repalcing army with FC makes no difference, because there is no difference between Army and Frontier corps. Both are same and both have been
involved in killing and terrorizing Baloch people. This is just another trick that Mr. Gilani is playing on behalf of Paki military to pacify Baloch people but no
Baloch will buy such cheap attempts.
ISLAMABAD, Dec 9 (APP): Prime Minister Syed Yusuf Raza Gilani on Wednesday reiterating offer to hold talks with dissident Baloch leaders announced
replacement of army with the FC, addressing a long standing demand of the people. Addressing the joint sitting of the parliament at the end of a two day
debate on according more rights to Balochistan, Gilani said the government will do all within its means to end years of deprivation and injustices to the
province.
Gilani announced end of seven checkposts in the province and said the checkposts have been closed at Othal, Lehri, Dera Allah Yar, Sheikh Wasil,
Gawal, Zero Point and Islamzai.
He said on his directive FC was now replacing the army and as a first step army has been withdrawan from Kohlu cantonment. He said a notification in
this regard has been issued.
He said measures were being taken to place the FC under the direct control of the Chief Minister.
He pointed that soon FC will also be deployed at Sui and work was underway to add three new wings. He said the border along Mund would be opened.
Announcing a series of measures Gilani said orders for payment of dues amounting to Rs 120 billion for Balochistan have been issued. He said it was
just the start and not the end to make Pakistan strong and prosperous.
“We have never shied from meeting any stakeholder,” Gilani said and added that he was ready to personally visit and meet any political leader, whether
young or old, at their place, for greater reconciliation in the larger interest of the nation.
The prime minister urged the young Baloch to join hands with the government in making their province and Pakistan strong. He said “with confidence
and sincerity we will make it a strong nation that will foil attempts of all enemies.” He said the B areas were also being converted into A areas.
Gilani termed the making of the Aghaz e Haqooq e Balochistan as a “difficult task” and said he was grateful to Almighty Allah to guide and give him
strength in providing relief to the people of Balochistan. He said it was government’s determination that the implementation on the Balochistan package
has started and said all resolutions passed by the Balochistan assembly since 2002 have been accommodated in the set of proposals.
The prime minister said when the government took over it was informed that around 8,000 people were missing. However after a thorough probe it was
found that the actual number was only 992. He said of these, 262 have returned to their homes so far and other innocent will also return soon, he added.
He asked the Balochistan government to release a list of the missing people through media.
He said under the package all political workers will be released that are not involved in any serious crimes. He said last year, 83 cases were withdrawn
and 89 more would be withdrawn. He announced that 10,000 youth of Balochistan would be provided jobs, besides government jobs will be provided to
5,000 graduates which will be besides the regular quota.
Gilani announced lowering of educational qualification for appointment in Coast Guards from matriculation to class 8 to enable more young Baloch join
the service.
He said Senate Standing committee will monitor and ensure implementation of the decisions taken for Balochistan. Gilani said he has directed payment
of Rs one billion each for the flood affectees, the Internally Displaced People.
Gilani was appreciative of all parliamentarians and in particular mentioned President and PPP co chairperson Asif Ali Zardari, leader of PML N Mian
Nawaz Sharif, PML Q leader Ch. Shujaat Hussain, PML F leader Pir Pagaro, MQM leader Altaf Hussai and other political leaders for their support.
Regarding foreign interference in Balochistan he said he was the first person from this house that spoke of Indian interference and was mentioned in
the joint statement after his talks with Manmohan Singh at Sharm el Sheikh.
“We will decide when and at which forum to provide such evidence,” Gilani told the joint sitting of the parliament.
http://thepakistaninewspaper.com/
Pakistan withdrawing troops from Balochistan
Rebels in Balochistan have been fighting the Pakistani troops since 2004.
Pakistan is withdrawing its troops from parts of the country's southwestern Balochistan province that has been rocked by ethnic unrest in recent years.
The withdrawal, which was ordered by Pakistani Prime Minister Yousuf Reza Gilani, started on Wednesday morning.
Islamabad says the move is part of a Balochistan Rights Initiative package.
However, the head of a Pakistani opposition political party says Baloch leaders have rejected the package altogether.
The Chairman of the Sindh Taraqi Pasand Party (STP) accuses Islamabad of being hypocritical.
Qadir Magsi says the Pakistani government is supporting terrorists while at the same time it is launching operations against militants.
In 2004, the Baloch rebels took up arms against the federal government, demanding autonomy for the province and greater shares from the region's
natural resources.
http://www.presstv.ir/
Gilani offers to visit elder Baloch leaders
By Raja Asghar
ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani on Wednesday offered to visit Balochistan’s dissident ‘elder politicians’ and announced decisions to
release all political workers not involved in heinous crimes and pullout of troops from two hotspots as some of the first steps to implement a government
package to pacify the troubled province.
He also called upon young Baloch dissidents — some of whom have taken up arms in a low-intensity insurgency — to join the national mainstream and
announced more job opportunities for the youth and abolition of some road checkposts of security agencies as he wound up a two-day debate in a joint
sitting of the two houses of parliament on a 39-point package unveiled last month.
While voicing his hope that estranged Baloch political leaders and workers would accept a dialogue offer he made while announcing the package to a
similar joint sitting on Nov 24, the prime minister said in a prepared Urdu speech: ‘I am prepared to go to the homes of elder politicians in pursuing the
path of understanding and reconciliation.’
He did not specify these ‘elder’ politicians, but he seemed to be referring to two nationalist tribal chieftains — former provincial chief minister Ataullah
Khan Mengal and former National Assembly member Khair Bakhsh Marri — who had long been at odds with the centre and are widely regarded as the
main inspiration for Baloch dissidents, some of whom seek more provincial autonomy and control over the natural resources of the country’s largest but
least-populated province but some — possibly closer to hardliner Marri — dreaming of a future outside the Pakistani federation.
‘I will also ask the estranged youth that they join the national mainstream,’ said Mr Gilani, whose speech was repeatedly cheered with desk-thumping by
lawmakers from the PPP-led ruling coalition and sometimes by opposition as well.
Army pullout
Referring to a series of administrative measures proposed by the package prepared by a parliamentary committee headed by PPP senator Raza
Rabbani, the prime minister said army had been withdrawn from Kohlu cantonment on Wednesday on his orders and replaced by the paramilitary
Frontier Corps (FC) and that he had also issued orders for the replacement of army by FC soon at Sui, which has the country’s main gas field located in
the troubled Dera Bugti district and had been a major trouble spot before and after the killing of former provincial governor Akbar Khan Bugti.
He said the process had begun to create three FC ‘wings’ in which Baloch youth would be employed.
The prime minister said that while a parliamentary committee on constitutional reforms was making progress on the issue of provincial autonomy of
which it would ‘soon’ inform the house, ‘our government has taken solid steps in connection with political matters (and) decided to release all political
workers who are not involved in any other heinous crime’.
The prime minister’s announcement indicated he had not been able to accept a demand made by several members from both the opposition and the
ruling alliance to grant a general amnesty for Balochistan without the proviso of involvement in ‘heinous crimes’, an allegation often levelled against
dissidents.
Mr Gilani thanked leaders of opposition parties for their cooperation in the task, which was an ‘effort we made not only to solve problems with realism but
also make arrangements so there is no scope for their recurrence in the future’.
While repeating his offer of what he called ‘the hand of friendship to estranged Baloch brothers’ in his Nov 24 speech, he engaged in some rhetoric to
say : ‘I am sure if we hold each other’s hands with confidence and sincerity, we will prove a nation like an impregnable wall against which any colliding
power will crash into pieces.’
The prime minister announced the reopening of the Mand border point with Iran, saying this was being done in accordance with the wishes of the Baloch
people, and abolition of seven checkposts at Othal, Lehri, Sheela Bagh, Gawal Islamzai, Zero point Turbat on the coastal highway and Sheikh Wasal.
Missing persons
He said investigations by ‘our institutions’ had put the number of Baloch ‘missing persons’ allegedly picked up by intelligence agencies at 992 and that
262 of them had already returned to their homes while the ‘remaining all such innocent people also will, God-willing, reunite with their kith and kin soon’.
Necessary process has also begun to inquire into death of Nawab Akbar Bugti and the murder of political workers Balach Marri, Ghulam Mohammad,
Lala Munir and Munir Ahmad, he said.
Some other salient points of the prime minister speech are:
- Decision taken to review the role of federal agencies in Balochistan while FC replaces army.
- The policy to convert ‘B’ areas to ‘A’ areas being reviewed and steps being taken to bring law-enforcing role of the FC under the provincial chief minister.
- An amount of one billion rupees released for the internally displaced persons of Dera Bugti.
- Orders issued for the payment of Rs120 billion arrears of gas development surcharge from 1954 to 1991 in 12 years.
- Balochistan representatives appointed on PSO and OGDC boards while the appointment of the province’s representatives on the boards of two other
companies to be made in the next two weeks.
- The government to provide employment to every graduate from Balochistan while implementation of the announcement of 5,000 jobs in addition to the
provincial quota has begun, government to arrange training and guidance for Baloch citizens for jobs abroad and locals to be given employment in
coastguard for which minimum qualification has been reduced to middle from matriculation.
- Under Youth Internship programme, 10,000 Baloch youths to be employed.
Indian interference
At the end of his speech, before the sitting was prorogued by a presidential order, the prime minister dismissed some opposition members’ allegations
of contradictions between the statements of interior and foreign ministries about foreign interference in Balochistan.
He recalled raising the issue of alleged Indian interference with Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh during their meeting at the Egyptian resort of
Sharm al-Sheikh earlier this year and its mention in a joint statement and said: ‘I assure (you) that we are prepared to present proofs we have about
interference in Balochistan to any forum and at any time as required.’
http://www.dawn.com/wps/
Pak's allegations of involvement in Baloch insurgency
discussed with India: Mullen
Washington, Dec.9 : US Joint Chiefs of Staff Chairman Admiral Mike Mullen has said that he has discussed Pakistan's allegations regarding India's
involvement in fanning insurgency in Balochistan with the Indian leadership.
Mullen told a private television channel here, that he has discussed Islamabad's reservations with both his former and present Indian counterparts,
including the Indian Army Chief General Deepak Kapoor, and the country's political leadership.
The top US military official said he has also held detailed discussions with Pakistan Chief of the Army Staff General Ashfaq Parvez Kayani over the issue,
The Nation reports.
Commenting on the heightened tension between India and Pakistan, Mullen said the resolution of the Kashmir issue, to a large extent, would help
establishing peace and stabilise the region.
Responding to a query, Mullen said Washington is concerned about the killings of US citizens by the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), and added that
both the Taliban and Al-Qaeda were aiding each other in the Pak-Afghan border region.
http://www.calcuttanews.net/story/575377
PML-N forwards recommendations on Balochistan to PM
* Party to cooperate with government if its proposals are included in recommended package
By Rana Kashif
Sunday, December 06, 2009
LAHORE: The Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) has finalised and forwarded to the prime minister a number of proposals on the Balochistan
package for presentation in the National Assembly (NA) when parliament takes up the draft for a formal debate.
Party sources told Daily Times on Saturday that the PML-N would be pressing hard for the implementation of its proposals. The party has also decided to
cooperate with the government in case its proposals are included in the recommended package, sources said, adding that the party was unlikely to
support the package until all stakeholders were taken on board.
Besides this, the PML-N also wants the government to initiate dialogue with Baloch nationalist parties at the federal and provincial levels. The PML-N
has finalised the following recommendations for inclusion in the Balochistan package.
1. Registration of an FIR against former president Gen (r) Pervez Musharraf for the murder of Nawab Akbar Khan Bugti.
2. The immediate constitution of a judicial commission comprising of judges of the Balochistan High Court to investigate the recent killing of Baloch
leaders Ghulam Muhammad Baloch, Sher Muhammad Baloch and Lala Munir Baloch. The commission should also investigate the murder of Balach
Marri.
3. An independent commission consisting of high court judges should compile a list of missing persons or alternatively, and subject to law, the PML-N
may itself become party in the Supreme Court case regarding the missing persons.
4. All detained people be allowed immediate, open and fair trials. If found innocent, they must be released and cases quashed.
5. Rehabilitation of displaced families should be carried out on an emergency basis. Internally displaced persons (IDPs) have moved out of Bugti and
Marri areas to Jafferabad, Naseerabad and other districts of Balochistan, Sindh and Punjab.
6. An immediate end to the army operation in Balochistan.
7. Political involvement of intelligence agencies should be restricted only to counter foreign interference and assistance, both monetary and physical, of
anti-Pakistan forces.
8. Creation of employment on a large scale both in the government and private sectors. The provincial government should be asked to allocate jobs for
the Baloch people. The federal government should also immediately restore the agreed share of Balochistan in the Centre.
9. There are serious and complex issues raised by the people of Balochistan [that need addressing]. These issues concern both the federal and
provincial governments, and include issues like provincial autonomy, distribution of national resources on the basis of land, ownership of the Gwadar
Port, usage of water resources, communications and gas royalty and distribution.
http://www.pakistanlink.com/
Gilani orders withdrawal of army from Balochistan
ISLAMABAD, Dec 9 (APP): Prime Minister Syed Yusuf Raza Gilani on Wednesday reiterating offer to hold talks with dissident Baloch leaders announced
replacement of army with the FC, addressing a long standing demand of the people. Addressing the joint sitting of the parliament at the end of a two day
debate on according more rights to Balochistan, Gilani said the government will do all within its means to end years of deprivation and injustices to the
province.
Gilani announced end of seven checkposts in the province and said the checkposts have been closed at Othal, Lehri, Dera Allah Yar, Sheikh Wasil,
Gawal, Zero Point and Islamzai.
He said on his directive FC was now replacing the army and as a first step army has been withdrawan from Kohlu cantonment. He said a notification in
this regard has been issued.
He said measures were being taken to place the FC under the direct control of the Chief Minister.
He pointed that soon FC will also be deployed at Sui and work was underway to add three new wings. He said the border along Mund would be opened.
Announcing a series of measures Gilani said orders for payment of dues amounting to Rs 120 billion for Balochistan have been issued. He said it was
just the start and not the end to make Pakistan strong and prosperous.
“We have never shied from meeting any stakeholder,” Gilani said and added that he was ready to personally visit and meet any political leader, whether
young or old, at their place, for greater reconciliation in the larger interest of the nation.
The prime minister urged the young Baloch to join hands with the government in making their province and Pakistan strong. He said “with confidence
and sincerity we will make it a strong nation that will foil attempts of all enemies.” He said the B areas were also being converted into A areas.
Gilani termed the making of the Aghaz e Haqooq e Balochistan as a “difficult task” and said he was grateful to Almighty Allah to guide and give him
strength in providing relief to the people of Balochistan. He said it was government’s determination that the implementation on the Balochistan package
has started and said all resolutions passed by the Balochistan assembly since 2002 have been accommodated in the set of proposals.
The prime minister said when the government took over it was informed that around 8,000 people were missing. However after a thorough probe it was
found that the actual number was only 992. He said of these, 262 have returned to their homes so far and other innocent will also return soon, he added.
He asked the Balochistan government to release a list of the missing people through media.
He said under the package all political workers will be released that are not involved in any serious crimes. He said last year, 83 cases were withdrawn
and 89 more would be withdrawn. He announced that 10,000 youth of Balochistan would be provided jobs, besides government jobs will be provided to
5,000 graduates which will be besides the regular quota.
Gilani announced lowering of educational qualification for appointment in Coast Guards from matriculation to class 8 to enable more young Baloch join
the service.
He said Senate Standing committee will monitor and ensure implementation of the decisions taken for Balochistan. Gilani said he has directed payment
of Rs one billion each for the flood affectees, the Internally Displaced People.
Gilani was appreciative of all parliamentarians and in particular mentioned President and PPP co chairperson Asif Ali Zardari, leader of PML N Mian
Nawaz Sharif, PML Q leader Ch. Shujaat Hussain, PML F leader Pir Pagaro, MQM leader Altaf Hussai and other political leaders for their support.
Regarding foreign interference in Balochistan he said he was the first person from this house that spoke of Indian interference and was mentioned in
the joint statement after his talks with Manmohan Singh at Sharm el Sheikh.
“We will decide when and at which forum to provide such evidence,” Gilani told the joint sitting of the parliament.
http://thepakistaninewspaper.com/
PM orders troops withdrawal from Sui
Wednesday, 9 Dec, 2009 8:42 pm
ISLAMABAD : Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani has said the orders of withdrawal of troops from Sui after Kohlu in Balochistan have been issued. Aaj
News reported on Wednesday.
Addressing joint session of the parliament on Wednesday Gilani said Frontier Constabulary will replace the troops in Balochistan. The government will
deal in to killings of veteran Baloch leader Nawab Akbar Bugti and Mir Baloch Marri.
He said 10000 Baloch youths will get jobs under youth program.
Prime Minister Gilani said that the government was keen to engage all exile leaders of Balochistan in dialogue.
Legislators from both Houses of the Parliament on Wednesday called for practical steps to overcome sense of deprivation among the people of
Balochistan when the Joint Sitting of the Parliament resumed debate on the Aghaz-e-Hakook-e-Balochistan package.
Initiating the day, Senator Dr Abdul Malik said that the government should talk with rebel Bugti and Marri leaders as this was key to success of the efforts
to find long-lasting solution of the problem.
He termed former president Musharraf, directly responsible for the murder of veteran politician Nawab Akbar Bugti and demanded his trial. He alleged
that the small nationalities were threatened with loss of their identity in the federation. Dr Malik accused that Balochistan government was involved in
corruption and the common Balochis problems were not being resolved, which was adding to their sense of deprivation.
Taking part in the discussion Senator Jan Muhammad Jamali said that Balochistan issue was 62-year old problem and a big heart was needed to settle
the matter.
Jamali said that Zulfikar Ali Bhutto was the great statesman and the Western world conspired to eliminate him. He was of the opinion that time for
debates was over and if practical steps were not taken now, it would be too late then.
Jan Jamali proposed that the Upper House of the Parliament should be strengthened and it should be given fiscal powers. Besides he called for holding
direct elections for the Senators.
He advised the government to hold talks with nationalist leader Khair Bux Marri and Bramdag Bugti,otherwise the government efforts would fail to bear
fruit.
While taking part in the discussion, Senator Abdul Rahim Mandokhail said that the present package was proof of the good intentions of the government.
Minister of State for Industry and Production, Dr. Aytullah Durrani called for need of holding talks with nationalist leader Khair Bux Marri and Bramdag
Bugti and offered his services in this regard to hold talks with them on behalf of the government. This would be a key to success of the efforts to find long-
lasting solution of the problems.
http://thepakistaninewspaper.com/news_detail.php?id=15322
Not a shred of evidence of Indian involvement in
Balochistan: Govt
Saturday 5th December, 2009 (ANI)
New Delhi, Dec.5 : Rubbishing Pakistan's accusations of Indian involvement in Balochistan, Indian Foreign secretary Nirupama Rao on Saturday said
there was no evidence to substantiate the allegation.
"There is not a shred of evidence to Corroborate what the Pakistan authorities have been alleging about so called activities by India in Balochistan,"
Nirupama Rao said in the capital.
Taking umbrage to Pakistan's allegations Foreign Secretary further said: "Balochistan is an internal affair of Pakistan and it is not our habit, it is not our
policy to interfere in the internal affairs of neighboring countries."
India had also asked Pakistan to follow the same approach of non-interference.
Rao was reacting to the statement made by Pakistani Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani in which he has reportedly claimed that a dossier with evidence
of India fomenting trouble in Balochistan would be handed over to New Delhi at an appropriate time.
On Thursday, Pakistan Foreign Office spokesperson Abdul Basit said Indian elements remain present in Balochistan and Federally Administered Tribal
Areas (FATA).
Basit said the interior ministry had evidence to prove the presence and will make a sovereign decision of who to share it with.
Earlier Pakistani Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi had said that evidence of India's involvement in Balochistan would be disclosed through
diplomatic channels at the right time.
Reacting sharply to the charges, India on Thursday accused Pakistan of "fabricating evidence" and rejected as "unfounded" charges of fomenting
insurgency in Balochistan.
On Pakistan's repeated allegations, foreign minister S M Krishna told Rajya Sabha statements of the Pakistani foreign minister read together made it
evident that Islamabad was fabricating evidence (of India's alleged role in Balochistan), not even a shred of evidence has been received so far."
Pakistan is constantly hurling allegations on India for fomenting militancy in Balochistan through its consulates in Afghanistan. Whereas India has been
rejecting the charges and has maintained that these consulates are present in Afghanistan since 1950s and are involved in the consular activities.
Baloch nationalists, who are engaged in low intensity insurgency have time and again stated that India is not involved in militancy in the region and it is
the result Pakistan's ongoing exploitation and persecution of the province.
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