Political leadership should find lasting solution to heal Baloch people’ wounds, NA told

Islamabad: Minister for Defence Khawaja Asif has said the political leadership should take the initiative to find a permanent solution to the problems faced by the people of Balochistan.

Responding to the points of Akhtar Mengal of Balochistan National Party in the National Assembly on Wednesday, he said we are one nation and cannot stay indifferent to the problems of any federating unit.

Khawaja Asif said the points raised by Akhtar Mengal regarding the Balochistan situation are genuine and there is a dire need to heal the wounds of the people of the province. He said the problems of Balochistan can be addressed by sitting together with the leaders and people of Balochistan.

The Defence Minister also voiced concerns over the security situation in Swat and other areas, warning this could also spread to other areas. He said responsibility rests with all the institutions to find a solution to the threats faced by the state. He was appreciative of the people of Swat for standing up against the terrorist elements.

Khawaja Asif also alluded to the devastation caused by floods in the country. He said the PTI government was removed through a constitutional way, regretting that its Chairman is now trying to blackmail and take hostage the state.

Minister for Defence Khawaja Asif proposed that either Truth and Reconciliation Commission or a judicial commission be formed to address the situation in Balochistan. He said he will also raise the issue in the federal cabinet.

The Minister for Defence said Pakistan has been a frontline state in the war on terrorism. He said our civilians and security forces have rendered matchless sacrifices in the war against this menace. He pointed out that over the last three months, fifty three security personnel embraced martyrdom which also included a three star general. He said we are continuously giving sacrifices.

Federal Minister Javed Latif said that grievances of the people of Balochistan and other areas can be addressed by implementing the constitution in letter and spirit.

In his remarks on the occasion, Minister for Human Rights Mian Riaz Hussain Pirzada emphasized for taking collective and strong decisions to ensure protection of the people and their rights.

Minister for Climate Change Sherry Rehman said Pakistan has paid a heavy price in the war on terrorism. She said we have conducted successful operations against terrorism which has also been acknowledged by the world community.

She said the terrorists cannot be allowed to raise their ugly heads again in Swat or other areas.

As regards Balochistan, the Minister for Climate Change proposed the formation of Truth and Reconciliation Commission to take the situation towards improvement in the province.

Mohsin Dawar also supported the establishment of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission saying it is imperative to take the country in the right direction.

Later, the house was adjourned to meet again tomorrow at eleven am.