Islamabad: A Pakistani provincial minister
has alleged that several countries, including India, were
behind the worsening law and order situation in the
southwestern Balochistan province.
Balochistan Home Minister Mir Zafarullah Zehri made the
allegation during a news conference in Quetta yesterday.
He claimed that "foreign hands" were involved in the
unrest in Balochistan but did not give any proof to back up
his charge.
Responding to a question, he said several foreign
intelligence agencies were "playing a game" in Balochistan.
He alleged that India had opened a number of consulates
in Afghanistan from where it was trying to destabilise
Balochistan and the rest of Pakistan.
"There is an external force engaged in the deteriorating
law and order situation for their vested interests in this
geographically important province of Pakistan," Zehri claimed.
Negotiations and not the use of force can restore peace
in Balochistan, he said.
Dispelling the impression that the use of force can bring
about a positive change in the province, he said, "We believe
in political reconciliation and always opted for dialogue to
resolve all outstanding issues confronting the people."
PTI
