Misleading representations about Balochistan continue to emerge, spread by certain organizations and individuals supported by enemies of Pakistan.

An example of this is the recent statement by the Centre for Gender Justice and Women Empowerment, a little-known NGO, to the UN Human Rights Council, making unsubstantiated claims about the alleged imposition of religious extremism on the Baloch people. While this portrayal is a gross distortion of the facts, it appears to be a calculated attempt to tarnish Pakistan’s image on the world stage.

First of all, the claims made by this NGO reveal a profound lack of understanding of the socio-cultural and religious fabric of Balochistan. The Baloch people, whether in Pakistan or Iran, are predominantly Muslims. Islam is an integral part of their identity and there is no question of imposing religious extremism on a population that already practices Islam as a way of life.

The NGO’s statement does not appear to provide a single concrete example of religious extremism. Its claims are rambling and unsubstantiated, lacking any concrete examples or evidence to support the story it constructs. It is clear that the NGO’s story is based on conjecture rather than facts, which further calls into question its understanding of the situation in Balochistan.

As for the seminaries, they are not only found in Balochistan but across Pakistan, including in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Sindh, Gilgit-Baltistan and Azad Kashmir. Although some of these institutions are in need of reform, they have historically played a crucial role in providing free education, food and shelter to millions of children from impoverished families. These seminaries have often been the only source of education for children who would otherwise have no access to schooling.

The NGO’s statement appears to have been dictated by outside influences, apparently drafted in the comfortable living rooms of those who neither understand the region nor have any real connection to it.

The real problem and threat to Balochistan is external interference, especially from India. The arrest of Indian naval officer Kulbhushan Jadhav in 2016 provided concrete evidence of India’s involvement in inciting unrest and insurgency in Balochistan. Jadhav’s confession, in which he admitted to being sent by India to destabilize the province, reveals the true evil face of India.

Moreover, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s open support for Baloch separatists during his 2016 Independence Day speech was a clear sign of India’s intention to interfere in Pakistan’s internal affairs. This statement was not only an admission of interference but also a dangerous escalation that had serious consequences for the region.

It is also important to highlight that the majority of Baloch are patriotic Pakistanis who are aware of the external forces trying to sow discord in their province. They have rejected the narrative of separatism and this was clearly seen in the recently held Independence Day celebrations, which certainly worried those who have been trying to sow discord in the province for years.

The Baloch are aware that the development projects underway in their province such as CPEC and the development of Gwadar Port offer opportunities for economic empowerment and social progress.

Given these facts, it is imperative that the international community, including organizations like the United Nations, carefully examine the claims made by NGOs like the Centre for Gender Justice and Women Empowerment. Rather than taking their statements at face value, the motives behind their propaganda should be thoroughly investigated. It is not uncommon for such organizations to be funded or influenced by external actors who have a vested interest in destabilizing Pakistan.

The international community must also acknowledge India’s role in perpetuating violence and instability in Balochistan. India’s extraterritorial activities aimed at undermining Pakistan’s sovereignty are contrary to international law and must be condemned. The world cannot afford to turn a blind eye to the evidence of Indian interference, for this would only embolden those who seek to disrupt peace and stability in the region.

Our government has a responsibility to continue its efforts for the development of Balochistan. At the same time, the government must remain vigilant against the enemy’s dirty designs and denounce them in international forums, including the United Nations.

It is time for the world to see Balochistan not through the lens of propaganda but as a region of enormous potential where the resilience and patriotism of the people as well as the rich natural resources of the province will continue to drive progress and development in the years to come.