The Baloch Yakjehti Committee (BYC) has raised serious concerns over the treatment of detained activists and alleged shortcomings in Pakistan’s judicial process, arguing that proceedings involving its members do not meet basic standards of a fair trial.

The rights group has particularly objected to the manner in which judicial proceedings involving detained BYC leaders are being conducted, alleging that restrictions on access to open court proceedings and other legal safeguards undermine judicial independence.

The allegations come amid continuing tensions in Balochistan, where Pakistan has faced a long-running separatist insurgency alongside a broader dispute over enforced disappearances, detentions and the treatment of political activists.

BYC Questions Fair-Trial Safeguards

The Baloch Yakjehti Committee has argued that conducting judicial proceedings involving detained leaders inside prison premises violates principles of open justice and fair trial.

A recent statement circulated by the group described prison-based proceedings as incompatible with judicial independence and international fair-trial standards. 

Such claims represent the position of the BYC and should be distinguished from an independent judicial finding that the proceedings themselves are unlawful.

Balochistan’s Wider Rights Dispute

The controversy comes against a broader backdrop of political and security tensions in Balochistan.

The province has experienced a long-running insurgency involving armed separatist organisations, including the banned Balochistan Liberation Army. Pakistani authorities have accused militant groups of carrying out attacks on civilians and security forces, while Baloch rights activists have repeatedly raised concerns about disappearances, arrests and alleged abuses by state authorities.

The security situation remains volatile. Pakistani authorities recently reported military operations against militants in several Balochistan districts, while describing those killed as members of outlawed armed groups. 

Activists and Security Claims Remain Contested

The BYC has positioned itself around demands concerning Baloch rights and accountability. Pakistani authorities and military officials, however, have previously accused the organisation and some of its leaders of supporting narratives hostile to the state.

Those allegations are strongly contested by Baloch rights activists.

This distinction is important because criticism of the state's treatment of activists and allegations of links to separatist groups are separate claims that require evidence and due process.

Debate Over Judicial Independence

The latest dispute has also revived questions about the independence of Pakistan's judicial system in cases involving political activism and national-security allegations.

Pakistan's courts include the Supreme Court, High Courts and subordinate courts, alongside specialised tribunals. The country's legal system has also seen significant debate over the use of military courts to try civilians.

A major Supreme Court case initially questioned the constitutional basis for military trials of civilians, although a later constitutional bench overturned that position and allowed such trials to continue under specified circumstances. 

The history illustrates why questions surrounding judicial independence and the forum in which defendants are tried remain particularly sensitive in Pakistan.

Fair Trial at Centre of Dispute

At the heart of the BYC's criticism is the principle that accused individuals should have meaningful access to legal representation, an independent judicial process and the ability to defend themselves through transparent proceedings.

Whether those safeguards have been violated in specific BYC cases is ultimately a matter for courts and documented evidence to establish.

For the activists involved, however, the manner in which proceedings are conducted has become a central part of their broader allegations against the Pakistani state.

Security Concerns Complicate the Issue

Pakistan's authorities face a difficult security environment in Balochistan, where armed groups have carried out attacks and the government continues counter-insurgency operations.

That security context is frequently cited by authorities when defending restrictions and arrests.

Human-rights advocates, meanwhile, argue that security concerns cannot eliminate due-process protections. The challenge for Pakistan's judicial and security institutions is therefore to address legitimate security threats while ensuring that individuals accused of offences receive the procedural safeguards guaranteed by law.

What Comes Next

The dispute is likely to remain under scrutiny as proceedings involving BYC members continue.

For the Baloch rights movement, the issue has become part of a larger campaign demanding greater accountability and protection for political activists. For Pakistani authorities, the wider challenge remains balancing counter-insurgency measures with constitutional and legal obligations.

The immediate question is whether the courts handling the cases can provide proceedings that are demonstrably transparent, independent and consistent with fair-trial principles.

Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s government is facing growing political pressure as opposition parties move towards a coordinated parliamentary strategy amid concerns over security, economic conditions and unrest in several regions.

Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-Fazl (JUI-F) chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman has said opposition parties have agreed to coordinate their activities inside Parliament and present a common position before the public. The development comes as tensions between the government and its key ally, the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP), also remain a concern for the ruling arrangement.

The proposed opposition coordination could become a significant challenge for the Shehbaz government if more parties join the initiative. The political pressure is emerging alongside continuing security concerns in Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and protests in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK).

Opposition Plans Joint Strategy

Fazlur Rehman said opposition leaders had reached a consensus on working together in Parliament and would now formulate a joint strategy.

The consultations included National Assembly Opposition Leader Mehmood Khan Achakzai, Senate Opposition Leader Allama Raja Nasir Abbas and other opposition figures. Further discussions are expected to determine the structure and functioning of the proposed parliamentary front.

A broader opposition meeting is also expected in the coming days. Rehman has accused the government of presenting a misleading picture of the situation in the country and said the opposition would put forward what it considers the ground reality.

‘War-Like’ Situation In Balochistan, KP

The JUI-F leader has particularly criticised the government's handling of security in Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

Rehman described conditions in the two provinces as “war-like” and questioned whether the state was effectively able to enforce its writ. He also criticised Pakistan’s counter-terrorism strategy, arguing that years of military and security operations had not produced the desired results.

His remarks come against the backdrop of continuing militant and separatist violence in both provinces, adding to the government's wider law-and-order challenges.

Security Adds To Economic Pressure

Rehman has also linked the security situation to Pakistan’s economic difficulties. According to him, deteriorating law and order is affecting businesses and economic activity.

He pointed to restrictions affecting trade along Pakistan’s eastern and western borders and argued that insecurity was contributing to the country’s growing isolation.

The JUI-F chief blamed policies of what he described as the “hybrid regime” for the deteriorating political, economic and security environment.

Debate Over Provinces Opposed

Rehman has also criticised discussions about creating new provinces or dividing existing ones.

He argued that the issue should not be prioritised while Pakistan is dealing with serious security, economic and governance problems. According to Rehman, the country needs to address immediate challenges before taking up questions related to provincial restructuring.

He has previously advocated a broader national dialogue on security, inflation and governance.

PoK Unrest Adds Pressure

The JUI-F chief also raised concerns about protests in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, particularly in Rawalakot. He warned that failing to engage with protesters and address their grievances could further intensify the situation.

The unrest in PoK adds another layer to the political challenges confronting the government as dissatisfaction and protests emerge across different parts of the country.

Shehbaz Government Under Pressure

The emerging opposition coordination comes at a sensitive time for the Shehbaz Sharif government, which is also dealing with tensions involving the PPP, a key component of the ruling arrangement.

A united parliamentary opposition could increase pressure on the government during debates and legislative proceedings. The political impact would become more significant if additional parties join the proposed front or if divisions emerge within parties currently supporting the government.

For now, opposition parties are working towards a common parliamentary strategy. Whether the initiative develops into a sustained political alliance could determine how much pressure the Shehbaz government faces in the coming months.

 Pakistan has carried out fresh airstrikes in Balochistan amid a surge in attacks by the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) against Pakistani security forces, according to reports citing intelligence sources.

The latest escalation comes after the BLA claimed that its fighters had killed 32 Pakistani soldiers in attacks across the province this month.

According to sources cited by CNN-News18, Pakistani aircraft carried out strikes in areas including Surab and Gwadar. The sources claimed that at least 21 civilians, including women and children, were killed in the strikes. The casualty figures have not been independently verified.

BLA Launches Multiple Attacks

The reported Pakistani strikes came as the BLA carried out a series of attacks against security forces at multiple locations in Balochistan.

According to the reports, the group launched six attacks, primarily targeting police and military personnel.

In Chagai district, BLA members reportedly attacked and destroyed a police station in a midnight bombing, killing three security personnel.

Other reported attacks included an assault on a Pakistani military camp in Jhao, an attack on a security forces convoy along the Khuzdar RCD Highway, and an ambush targeting military vehicles in Wadh.

The group also reportedly attacked a security checkpoint in the Manguchar Bazaar area.

In Yakmach, BLA militants reportedly ambushed commercial vehicles and hijacked a truck.

Casualty figures from these overnight attacks were not immediately available.

Pakistan Reports Insurgent Casualties

Earlier on Wednesday, Pakistani authorities said security forces had killed 10 insurgents during clashes in Balochistan.

Authorities also reported a failed car-bombing attempt in which explosives detonated prematurely.

According to Pakistani officials, the incident killed at least 11 people, including eight people allegedly involved in preparing the explosives and three people inside a nearby house.

The incidents have added to growing concerns over a fresh escalation between Pakistani security forces and Baloch insurgent groups.

Civilian Casualties Reported

The latest airstrikes have also raised concerns over civilian casualties.

Sources cited in the reports said that strikes in Surab and Gwadar killed at least 21 civilians, including women and children.

The claims have not been independently confirmed, and there has been no comprehensive independent assessment of the reported civilian toll.

The competing claims over casualties come as both sides intensify military operations and attacks across the province.

Long-Running Baloch Insurgency

Balochistan has faced an armed insurgency for decades, with several Baloch nationalist groups demanding greater autonomy or independence from Pakistan.

The Baloch Liberation Army is among the most prominent armed groups involved in the conflict. It has carried out attacks against Pakistani military personnel, police, infrastructure and other targets.

Baloch nationalist groups argue that the region's integration into Pakistan was not voluntary and have accused Islamabad of political and economic exploitation.

Pakistan has rejected such claims and has consistently described the armed groups operating in the province as militant and terrorist organisations.

Resource-Rich but Poor Province

Balochistan is Pakistan's largest province by area and has significant reserves of natural resources.

Despite its mineral and energy wealth, it remains Pakistan's poorest province, with local communities frequently complaining that they have not benefited adequately from the region's resources.

Baloch activists have also alleged discrimination against the Baloch population and accused Pakistan's federal government and political establishment of exploiting the province's natural wealth.

Islamabad has maintained that development and security efforts are necessary to counter militancy and improve stability in the region.

Escalation Raises Regional Concerns

The latest cycle of BLA attacks and Pakistani military operations marks another escalation in the long-running Balochistan conflict.

With militant attacks continuing alongside air and ground operations by Pakistani security forces, concerns are growing over further civilian casualties and displacement.

The competing claims made by Pakistani authorities and the BLA are likely to remain difficult to independently verify, particularly in areas where access for journalists and independent observers is limited.

Further developments will depend on whether Pakistan expands its military campaign and whether the BLA continues its attacks against security and military targets across the province.

Pakistan is facing one of its most challenging internal phases in recent years, with unrest intensifying across several peripheral regions, including Balochistan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). Amid political instability, economic distress and security challenges, concerns are growing over the country's federal structure and its ability to address long-standing regional grievances.

An opinion article published by Firstpost argues that Pakistan is increasingly becoming a state dominated by Punjab's political and military establishment, warning that the country risks evolving into what it describes as "Punjabistan" if existing trends continue.

Protests Expand Beyond Balochistan

While Balochistan has witnessed an insurgency for years and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa continues to grapple with militancy, PoK has also seen repeated protests in recent months.

According to the analysis, demonstrations in PoK are particularly significant because the region has traditionally been projected by Islamabad as a model under its administration. However, growing public anger over inflation, electricity prices, governance and political representation has challenged that narrative.

The article notes that many residents increasingly view themselves as politically and economically marginalized within Pakistan's federal framework.

Economic Crisis Adds Fuel

Pakistan's prolonged economic crisis has added to public dissatisfaction across provinces. Rising inflation, subsidy cuts and increasing utility costs have triggered protests in several regions.

The opinion piece argues that shrinking government resources have intensified perceptions that Punjab continues to receive a disproportionate share of political attention and public investment while peripheral regions bear the burden of economic hardship.

Questions Over Governance

The commentary also argues that Pakistan's political system remains heavily influenced by its military establishment.

It cites the political trajectory of former Prime Minister Imran Khan as an example of how civilian leadership often depends on support from the country's military. The article suggests that successive governments have struggled to resolve regional disputes through political dialogue, relying instead on security-centric approaches.

Structural Challenges Highlighted

The article references observations made by scholars including John R. Schmidt and Babar Ayaz, who have argued that Pakistan's centralized governance model has historically favored Punjab, contributing to repeated unrest in other provinces.

According to the analysis, the absence of an inclusive federal structure and uneven distribution of political power have deepened dissatisfaction in Balochistan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and PoK.

Opinion, Not Official Position

The Firstpost article concludes that Pakistan has long projected itself as a homeland for Muslims but has increasingly functioned as a state dominated by Punjab's political and military elite.

It argues that unless structural political and economic reforms are undertaken, regional alienation could continue to grow, potentially weakening the country's federal cohesion.

The article represents the personal views of its author and does not constitute an official assessment or government position.

India has significantly strengthened the security of the strategically vital Siliguri Corridor, long known as the country's "Chicken's Neck," through new military deployments, advanced air defence systems and infrastructure upgrades. The developments come as the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) successfully tested its Kusha air defence missile system, while neighbouring Pakistan faces growing political and security challenges in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) and Balochistan.

The latest military and strategic developments underline India's focus on enhancing border security amid evolving regional security dynamics.

Siliguri Corridor Gets Stronger Military Shield

The Siliguri Corridor, a narrow stretch of land in West Bengal that connects India's northeastern states with the rest of the country, has long been regarded as one of India's most sensitive strategic zones.

At its narrowest point, the corridor measures only about 22 kilometres and is surrounded by Nepal, Bhutan, Bangladesh, and China's Chumbi Valley.

To reinforce the region, the Indian Army has established three new military stations:

• Lachit Borphukan Military Station (Assam): Strengthens logistics for the eastern theatre.
• Kishanganj Military Station (Bihar): Monitors the western approach towards the corridor.
• Chopra Military Station (West Bengal): Enhances surveillance close to the international border.

These facilities complement existing Border Security Force (BSF) deployments, significantly improving monitoring and operational readiness.

Army officials are increasingly referring to the corridor as the "Elephant's Trunk," reflecting greater confidence in its strengthened defences.

Advanced Weapons Deployed Near Chumbi Valley

India has also enhanced military capabilities in the region by deploying advanced assets under the Trishakti Corps.

These include:

• S-400 air defence missile systems
• BrahMos supersonic cruise missile regiments
• Rafale fighter aircraft operating from Hasimara Air Base

The deployments are aimed at strengthening India's preparedness along the China-facing frontier, particularly around the strategically significant Chumbi Valley, which was at the centre of the 2017 Doklam standoff.

Military planners believe the combination of long-range missiles, integrated radar coverage and modern fighter aircraft substantially improves India's defensive posture.

Alternative Connectivity Reduces Strategic Vulnerability

India has also developed alternate connectivity routes to reduce dependence on the Siliguri Corridor.

Projects such as the Kaladan Multi-Modal Transit Transport Project through Myanmar, along with new railway and highway links to the Northeast, provide additional logistical options should the corridor ever face disruption.

These alternate routes enhance strategic flexibility and reduce the risks associated with relying on a single land corridor.

DRDO Successfully Tests Kusha Air Defence Missile

In another major defence milestone, DRDO successfully conducted a test of the indigenous Kusha air defence missile system.

The interceptor reportedly achieved a direct hit on its intended target, demonstrating India's growing capability in developing long-range air defence technologies.

The Kusha system is being developed as India's indigenous long-range air defence platform and is expected to strengthen protection against enemy aircraft, cruise missiles and certain ballistic missile threats once fully operational.

The successful trial represents another step toward greater self-reliance in defence technology under India's indigenous defence programmes.

Pakistan Faces Political Turmoil in PoK

While India continues strengthening its defence capabilities, Pakistan is dealing with growing political unrest in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK).

Reports suggest former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif is seeking a leadership role in PoK, a move that has sparked political debate because of constitutional provisions concerning domicile requirements.

The issue comes amid continuing protests, economic grievances and security restrictions in the region.

India has consistently maintained that the entire Union Territories of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh, including areas under Pakistan's control, are integral parts of India.

Balochistan Remains Under Pressure

Pakistan is also facing intensified insurgent activity in Balochistan, where militant attacks targeting security forces have increased in recent months.

The violence has reportedly prompted calls for additional security measures and renewed discussions over the province's stability.

Analysts believe the deteriorating security situation poses another major challenge for Islamabad as it simultaneously deals with political tensions and economic pressures.

India Reiterates Position on Kashmir and Terrorism

At the United Nations Security Council, India recently reaffirmed its long-standing position that Jammu and Kashmir is an internal matter and rejected Pakistan's attempts to internationalise the issue.

India also reiterated that meaningful dialogue cannot proceed while cross-border terrorism continues.

On the Indus Waters Treaty, New Delhi maintained that restoring trust requires credible action against terrorism before normal engagement can resume.

Fresh allegations have emerged regarding Pakistan’s security establishment and its alleged links with extremist networks. According to a report, efforts are underway to politically contain Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-Fazl (JUI-F) chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman after he publicly criticised Pakistan Army Chief General Asim Munir and questioned his security policies.

The claims, reported by CNN-News18, centre on a meeting between Pakistan Ulema Council Chairman Hafiz Tahir Mahmood Ashrafi and Hafiz Talha Saeed, the son of UN-designated terrorist Hafiz Saeed. Intelligence sources quoted in the report described the meeting as a strategic discussion aimed at formulating a coordinated response to Fazlur Rehman’s recent remarks against the military leadership.

According to the report, the meeting took place at Markaz Quba and involved discussions on managing the political fallout from Rehman’s criticism. Sources indicated that participants explored ways to reduce his growing influence without triggering a direct confrontation with one of Pakistan’s most prominent religious and political figures.

Strategy to Manage Dissent

Fazlur Rehman has in recent months emerged as one of the most vocal critics of General Asim Munir’s leadership, questioning both security policies and governance decisions. His statements have attracted attention across Pakistan’s political landscape and have added pressure on an establishment that traditionally wields significant influence over national affairs.

Sources cited in the report claimed that the gathering focused on adopting a calibrated approach toward Rehman. Rather than openly confronting him, those involved reportedly discussed highlighting positive aspects of his political career while simultaneously discouraging further criticism of the military.

The report alleged that Lashkar-e-Taiba-linked figures advised clerics to maintain a softer public tone while conveying a clear warning against continued attacks on the army leadership. Observers view such an approach as an attempt to manage dissent through informal networks rather than through conventional political channels.

Questions Over Military Links

The allegations have once again raised concerns about the relationship between Pakistan’s military establishment and extremist organisations. Security analysts have long argued that some groups originally cultivated for strategic purposes have gradually become part of broader political calculations within the country.

According to the report, Pakistan’s military establishment views certain religious and militant-linked networks as a mechanism to shield itself from rising political criticism. The alleged use of such actors as a “domestic firewall” reflects concerns about the growing challenge posed by political dissent.

If proven, the claims would further intensify international scrutiny of Pakistan’s handling of organisations that remain linked to designated terrorist entities.

Echoes of Balochistan

The latest controversy also recalls previous allegations involving Balochistan, where activists and rights groups have accused state agencies of using proxy networks to intimidate critics and suppress dissent.

In 2025, reports alleged that Pakistan’s Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) was using Islamic State-linked cells to threaten Baloch activists. Rights campaigners claimed that extremist propaganda circulating at the time closely mirrored narratives promoted by sections of Pakistan’s security establishment.

A Baloch activist, speaking anonymously in those reports, argued that both ISIS-linked groups and state agencies sought to portray peaceful rights campaigners as supporters of militancy. According to activists, such efforts were aimed at undermining growing international awareness of alleged human rights violations and resource exploitation in the province.

Pakistan’s authorities have consistently denied allegations linking state institutions to extremist organisations. However, concerns surrounding civil-military relations and the influence of militant networks continue to attract attention from international observers and policy experts.

A self-declared Baloch leadership has announced the formation of an independent Republic of Balochistan, claiming control over most of Pakistan's largest province and appealing to the international community, including India, for diplomatic recognition. However, there has been no official confirmation from Pakistan or recognition by any country or international organisation, making the declaration a symbolic political claim rather than an internationally recognised statehood announcement.

The announcement was made on July 15 by Mir Yar Baloch, who describes himself as a representative of the Baloch movement. In posts shared on social media platform X, he claimed that Balochistan's defence forces had secured around 85% of the territory and that the new administration had adopted a national flag, anthem and its own currency, the Balochi Falus.

Claims yet to be independently verified

The self-proclaimed administration also asserted that it controls key natural resources, including gas fields, coal mines and major deposits of gold and copper. It further claimed that thousands of personnel from Pakistan's military and security agencies had defected to the Baloch movement.

The statement said a force of 500,000 personnel was prepared to remove Pakistani forces from the region by the end of 2026. None of these claims have been independently verified, and Pakistan has not officially acknowledged the declaration.

Long-running separatist movement

Balochistan has witnessed an armed separatist insurgency for decades. The province, which covers nearly 44% of Pakistan's land area but accounts for only about 6% of its population, has remained at the centre of political and security tensions since it was integrated into Pakistan in 1948.

Separatist groups accuse Islamabad of exploiting the province's vast natural resources while denying local communities adequate political representation, economic development and revenue sharing. They have also alleged enforced disappearances, military operations and human rights violations.

Strategic importance of Balochistan

The province occupies a strategically significant position, bordering Iran and Afghanistan, while providing Pakistan with an extensive coastline along the Arabian Sea.

It is also home to Gwadar Port, a flagship project under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), which forms part of China's Belt and Road Initiative. China has invested billions of dollars in infrastructure, mining and port development projects across the region.

Because of these strategic investments, any instability in Balochistan carries implications for Pakistan's economy, regional security and Chinese interests.

India faces a diplomatic dilemma

The self-declared Baloch leadership has appealed to India for recognition, urging Indian media and public figures to refer to Balochs as people of an independent nation rather than Pakistan.

However, analysts believe New Delhi is unlikely to take such a step.

Recognising Balochistan would be viewed internationally as a direct challenge to Pakistan's territorial integrity and could complicate India's longstanding position on Jammu and Kashmir, where India has consistently opposed external interference in what it considers its internal affairs.

Such a move could also strain India's improving relations with China, which has major strategic and economic interests in Balochistan through CPEC. It may also affect ties with Iran, which has repeatedly opposed any external support for Baloch separatist movements due to security concerns in its own Baloch-majority border regions.

International recognition remains uncertain

Under international law, declarations of independence alone do not create sovereign states. Recognition by other countries and the ability to exercise effective governmental control are key factors in determining statehood.

As of now, no country has recognised Balochistan as an independent nation, and there has been no verification of the territorial control or administrative claims made by the self-declared leadership.

The development nevertheless draws renewed attention to the decades-old Baloch separatist movement and places fresh diplomatic pressure on regional powers as tensions continue to evolve.

In Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir, anti-government protests entered their 34th consecutive day this week, having evolved from initial demands over inflation, electricity tariffs and wheat flour shortages into a broader rejection of Islamabad's control over the region altogether. At a gathering in Rawalakot, protest leader Javed Iqbal told the crowd that decades of Pakistani messaging about "liberating" Srinagar had lost all credibility with local Kashmiris. The gathering responded with a slogan declaring the region would never become a Pakistani province, and social media videos have shown large numbers of local women joining marches against what protesters describe as repression and arbitrary arrests. The unrest turned deadly this week when Pakistani security forces opened fire during clashes in Rawalakot, killing six civilians, according to multiple reports. The Joint Awami Action Committee has called for a long march toward Muzaffarabad on July 15, urging widespread participation.

India's Ministry of External Affairs addressed the situation directly at its weekly briefing, with spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal saying the protests are a consequence of what he called Pakistan's long-term denial of fundamental rights in the region, and accusing Pakistani authorities of responding with excessive force, supply blockades and communications blackouts. He said India hopes the international community will hold Pakistan accountable.

The unrest in PoK has coincided with a sharp escalation in violence in Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa's Pashtun areas. JUI-F chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman said the region has recorded more than 50 deaths over just two to three days, arguing that Pakistani government authority no longer effectively extends into Balochistan at all. According to data from the South Asia Terrorism Portal, Pakistan has recorded roughly 650 killing incidents so far in 2026, including 487 civilian and 730 security force deaths, alongside close to 1,200 militants killed.

Rehman used the moment to take a direct swipe at Munir's growing political role, telling reporters that if the military wants to do politics, its personnel should retire their uniforms and contest elections instead — a way, he said, of testing how many votes people in uniform would actually receive from the public. He separately accused the military of pushing a new generation of Pakistanis toward violence through its handling of the crisis.

Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has sought to shift blame for the violence outward, chairing a meeting with Munir and Balochistan Chief Minister Sarfraz Bugti last week where he accused militants of using Afghan territory to stage attacks inside both Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

Taken together, the three fronts — PoK's sustained street movement, the mounting Balochistan-Pashtun death toll, and a senior political leader publicly challenging the Army's electoral legitimacy — paint a picture of a security and political establishment under simultaneous pressure from multiple directions, with no clear sign from Islamabad of how it intends to address any of them.

Jaffar Express derails in suspected suicide attack near Chaman Gate; security forces cordon off area

At least 30 people were confirmed dead and more than 70 others injured after a powerful explosion hit the Jaffar Express near the Chaman Gate on the outskirts of Quetta city in Pakistan's Balochistan province late on Sunday.

Officials confirmed the blast was a suicide attack targeting the railway track. The explosion was so intense that it derailed several coaches of the passenger train, which was on its way to Quetta Cantt at the time. Visuals from the site show overturned bogies and a fire burning near the tracks, with thick smoke rising into the evening sky.

Casualties Mount

Rescue teams and police rushed to the scene shortly after the blast. “The death toll has risen to 30, and more than 70 injured have been shifted to Civil Hospital Quetta,” a local official said, adding that several among the injured were in critical condition. The blast also shattered window panes of nearby buildings, officials added.

Fire brigade units managed to douse the flames that had engulfed the tracks. A relief and rescue operation is currently underway, though authorities have appealed to the public not to crowd the site to allow teams to work freely.

Scene of the Blast

The explosion occurred near a sensitive security zone. Initial reports indicate the train was moving at a normal speed when the blast derailed the engine and at least four bogies. Footage circulating on social media shows passengers in a state of panic, with some climbing out of the wreckage.

Security agencies have cordoned off the entire area. “All security agencies have been put on high alert. We are investigating the nature of the explosive used,” said Babar Yusufzai, special assistant to the Balochistan government for home affairs.

No Immediate Claim

No organisation has claimed responsibility for the attack so far. However, security officials are treating it as a planned terrorist strike. The Jaffar Express, a flagship long-distance train of Pakistan Railways, connects Quetta to other major cities but passes through several volatile areas where militant groups are known to be active.

A History of Violence

This is not the first time the Jaffar Express has been targeted. The train runs through regions where the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) has a strong presence. Last year, the BLA had hijacked the same train, claiming to have taken over 200 passengers hostage.

The BLA, which seeks independence from the Pakistani government, has grown in influence since the 1970s. The group opposes what it calls the forced exploitation of Balochistan’s resources by the state and Chinese interests. Pakistan listed the BLA as a terrorist organisation in 2007.

Pakistan’s Terror Surge

The attack comes at a time when Pakistan ranks second on the Global Terrorism Index 2025, behind only Burkina Faso. According to the report, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan account for 90% of all terror incidents in the country, with attacks by the Baloch Army rising by 60% in the past year. The Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) saw a 90% increase in attacks during the same period.

Authorities in Quetta said an investigation into Sunday’s blast is ongoing, with forensic teams collecting evidence from the railway track.