QUETTA: Balochistan Chief Minister Mir Sarfraz Bugti on Friday said the fight against terrorism was not the responsibility of any single institution but a collective struggle involving the state and society.
The chief minister emphasised that the Balochistan police would remain at the forefront of efforts to maintain peace and defeat violent elements.
He was speaking at a ceremony at the National Police Academy in Islamabad to mark the completion of training of newly appointed deputy superintendents of police (DSPs) from Balochistan.
The chief minister said the provincial government was committed to equipping the police force with modern technology, quality training and a professional environment free from political interference and undue pressure.
CM Bugti said merit had been established as the guiding principle for appointments, transfers and the assignment of professional responsibilities within the police force. He added that decisions regarding the suitability of officers for various positions should be made by the police leadership itself.
“The supremacy of merit would play a pivotal role in restoring young people’s trust in state institutions,” CM Bugti said, adding that all pillars of the state must demonstrate through practical action that young people would be recruited, promoted and entrusted with responsibilities purely on merit. This would enable them to serve according to their professional capabilities without political influence.
He said police personnel were servants of both the state and the people and must perform their duties with integrity, dignity and a strong sense of responsibility.
Referring to the extension of police jurisdiction across Balochistan following the province’s declaration as a complete “A Area”, CM Bugti said the development brought both a major responsibility and a significant opportunity.
He expressed confidence that the newly trained officers would enhance the reputation of the province and the country through their professionalism, courage and commitment to duty.
“The war against terrorism is not merely a conflict between the armed forces and terrorists. It is a fight involving the entire state and society, including civil society, police, bureaucracy, politicians and the judiciary,” he said.
He maintained that the doors of reconciliation remained open to those willing to surrender before the state and abandon violence. However, he made it clear that no group would be allowed to impose its ideology through force.
He pledged continued support from the provincial government to help the police overcome challenges, combat terrorism and crime, and maintain a conducive professional environment.
At the conclusion of the ceremony, CM Bugti distributed training completion certificates and awards among the graduating DSPs. Ms Quratul Ain, who demonstrated outstanding performance during the training, was awarded the prestigious Sword of Honour.
Published in Dawn, October 31st, 2026
