BALOCHISTAN has been making headlines for quite a while now. That Baloch leaders are now openly demanding independence has come as a shock to many.

However, even if they do get a separate state of their own, will it guarantee the safety and rights of the Baloch? The province is plagued by extremism and radicalism as your editorial ‘Hazara killings’ (April 16) has rightly pointed out.

Sectarian violence, kidnapping and constant disappearances are just a few of the countless problems being faced by Balochistan.

In addition, the fact that the feudal system is still rife in the region doesn’t really help Balochistan’s case.

While the Baloch leaders and the government play the blame-game, it is the common man who suffers. Baloch freedom-fighters claim to be struggling for their rights. Their hearts might be in the right place but what exactly are the freedom-fighters doing to safeguard the rights of their people? What measures do they plan to take to stop the constant Shia killings in the region?

Are they ready to let go off their hatred for people of other religions and sects? Are Baloch feudal lords ready to delegate their power to the common people?

It is true that the Baloch are suffering. But it is also true that they are putting their faith in those who do not really know what they are fighting for. Even if they get rid of Pakistan’s indifferent government, how will they get rid of terrorist elements present in their territory?

It is time both parties let go off their personal grudges and thirst for power and thought rationally about the problems the people in Balochistan are facing. They should find ways to tackle problems the province is facing. Security, both financial and personal, should be provided to the Baloch population as urgently as possible.

FARWA BATOOL NAQVI Karachi