KARACHI, Oct 4: Secretary-General of the National Party Mir Hasil Khan Bizenjo has termed the holding of Baloch jirga ‘a positive and significant development’ in Balochistan politics, saying that it has united all tribal, as well as political, forces of the troubled province.

“This is a new development and it would have far-reaching implications on the future course of the province,” he said, and added that the Balochistan issue was not merely a autonomy issue, but it was now an issue of the survival of the Baloch people, who were determined to protect their land and to have control on their resources.

He held the government responsible for creating uncertain conditions in the province by using repressive methods against its political opponents. He said it was up to the government to decide whether it wanted to find a peaceful solution to the problem.

The NP leader lashed out at the policy of the Musharraf government towards Baloch people, saying it had resorted to subdue them in order to control their natural resources.

Giving his account of the situation prevailing in that province, the NP leader told Dawn that Nawab Akbar Bugti’s assassination had totally changed the political scenario of Balochistan as credibility gap between the military rulers and Baloch people had widened further.

At the same time, Mr Bizenjo maintained, Nawab Bugti’s death had mobilised all tribal and political forces of Balochistan. “We believe that the government is wrong and the general has committed a blunder by putting the integrity of the country at stake.

He also ruled out negotiations with the government, saying that holding of talks amid continued crackdown, torture, kidnappings and killings by government agencies was not possible.

The NP leader pointed out that the situation had radically changed and become more complicated. “Our people have lost faith in every institution of the country. Tyranny kills the spirit behind trust and confidence, and generate only hatred and prejudices.”

He said that all segments of Baloch population, including political and tribal forces, stood united following the launching of the brutal operation that also claimed the life of Nawab Bugti and many others. He pointed out that the unity was evident from the convening of the grand Baloch jirga as all people of Balochistan had resolved to continue their efforts towards protecting their land, resources and rights.

“This itself is a significant development which could alone provide them a future course of action. We have been pushed to the wall and there is no other way for us but to protect our honour,” Mr Bizenjo said.

The NP leader said that time had come to see the things in a broader perspective and work out a new social contract among different nations.