QUETTA: One of the nationalist leaders and head of a major nationalist party, Akhtar Mengal, is facing sharp criticism over his alleged involvement in organizing askari (militant) wings across the province.
Furthermore, it is no longer a hidden fact that Mengal, who enjoys strong backing from several student organizations including the Baloch Students Organization (BSO), is allegedly using these fronts to further his anti-state narrative.
There are further reports suggesting that under the guise of political mobilization, militant-style gatherings are being conducted in various districts of Balochistan, where inflammatory speeches and anti-state slogans are common practice.
Moreover, Nadeem-ur-Rehman, a prominent politician and social activist, stated that such activities are part of a broader plan to blackmail the state and manipulate the emotions of the local population.
“Akhtar Mengal is using students and marginalized voices to build pressure on the federation. But this strategy is no longer effective. The people of Balochistan, especially the youth, are now more aware and can distinguish between those who work for the province’s progress and those who seek to destabilize it for personal or political gain,” he said.
Meanwhile, during the past months, intelligence reports have noted a spike in political activities that mirror the structure and tactics of askari wings, particularly in remote regions such as Khuzdar, Panjgur, and Turbat.
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The people of Balochistan, once influenced by secessionist ideologies, are now reportedly turning towards integration and development.
