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Baloch leader claims independent state, seeks global recognition
Baloch movement leader Mir Yar Baloch has claimed that separatist groups have declared an independent "Republic of Balochistan", asserting control over about 85 per cent of Pakistan's southwestern province and urging the international community to recognise the territory as a sovereign state.
The claim was made in a declaration dated July 13 and shared widely on social media. However, it has not been independently verified, and neither the Pakistani government nor any international organisation has recognised Balochistan as an independent state.
In the declaration, the self-proclaimed republic claimed it had adopted a national flag and anthem, introduced a new currency called "Baluchi Falus", and established its own administrative and security institutions.
It also claimed to have taken control of major natural resources, including gold and copper mines, more than 150 active gas fields and over 1,200 operational coal mines across the province.
The declaration further alleged that members of Pakistan's military, police and Frontier Corps had resigned to join the separatist movement, adding that a force comprising military, naval, air and civilian personnel was now administering the territory.
Mir Yar Baloch said the proposed state would not allow Pakistan's military to use Balochistan's territory, airspace or coastline for operations against neighbouring countries. He appealed to the international community to recognise the self-declared republic, arguing that such recognition would contribute to regional stability.
Despite the claims, there is no independent evidence that separatist groups control 85 per cent of Balochistan or have replaced Pakistan's administrative structure in the province. Islamabad continues to exercise sovereignty over Balochistan, which remains internationally recognised as part of Pakistan.
Pakistani authorities have not issued any official response to the declaration.
Balochistan, Pakistan's largest but least populous province, has witnessed a decades-long separatist insurgency driven by grievances over political representation, resource distribution and alleged human rights abuses. The Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) designated a terrorist organisation by Pakistan, the United States and several other countries has carried out repeated attacks on security forces and strategic infrastructure while demanding independence or greater autonomy.
The latest declaration comes amid renewed violence in the province, although analysts caution that the separatists' claims remain unverified and should be treated with caution until supported by independent evidence.
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Editor : Iqbal Sobhan Chowdhury
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