Overpowered Sardars; Underdeveloped Balochistan

The exploitation and oppression of the common man by tribal lords in Balochistan has been a long-standing issue, and it has hindered the province’s progress and development. Despite efforts by the government and civil society to address these challenges, the legacy of tribal power and its impact on public life continues to be felt in Balochistan.

Recently, In the district of Barkhan, Balochistan, police recovered the bullet-riddled bodies of a woman and her two sons from a well. The woman’s face was horrifically distorted by acid. According to officials, all three victims were killed in firing before their bodies were thrown into the well. The victims were identified at the District Headquarters Hospital Barkhan.

The woman and her sons were allegedly imprisoned in a private jail of a tribal lord, according to a relative of the victims. The relative added that five more persons were still held in the private prison. This incident highlights how tribal lords exploit common people in Balochistan, where there has been little development of infrastructure, no comprehensive education system, and limited access to civic rights.

There is also an alleged video in which the murdered lady, Giran, while holding the Holy Quran, pleads for help, saying “I swear by God – this Quran is supreme – Sardar Abdul Rehman Khetran has me captive in jail. He is sexually assaulting my daughter every day and has also imprisoned my sons. Someone, please get us freed.”

In another infamous incident, in 2017, a traffic policeman in Quetta, Balochistan was allegedly hit and injured by a vehicle belonging to a tribal leader, MPA Majeed Khan Achakzai. The incident was captured on CCTV and sparked outrage among the public, who demanded justice for the injured policeman.

However, Achakzai was initially released on bail, which further fueled public anger. The case was eventually taken up by the Chief Justice of Pakistan, who ordered Achakzai’s arrest and demanded that he be tried in an anti-terrorism court.

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The incident highlights the influence and impunity of tribal leaders in Balochistan, who are often able to act above the law and avoid accountability for their actions. It also underscores the importance of the rule of law and the need for all citizens to be held accountable for their actions, regardless of their social or political status.

The tribal system in Balochistan has had significant impacts on public life, as it has hindered the development of the province. Despite being rich in natural resources, there has been little infrastructure development, which has made it difficult for people to access basic necessities.

Furthermore, the absence of a comprehensive and effective education system has limited opportunities for the people of Balochistan, making it difficult for them to compete with other regions of the country.

Additionally, the tribal system has made it challenging for citizens to have access to civic rights, including the right to participate in local government and decision-making. All of these factors have contributed to the overall underdevelopment of Balochistan, which remains a major challenge for the region!

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