Terrorism in Balochistan and India's Alleged Role

Date: July 27, 2025

While banned Baloch separatist groups appear to be the perpetrators of terrorism in Balochistan, the underlying reality is that these entities are silently destabilizing Pakistan with external support. Travelers in Balochistan often feel an overwhelming sense of fear. Recently, Punjabis and Sindhis were singled out and murdered during a bus journey, sparking nationwide outrage and grief.

India’s Accusations and Regional Hostility

India has consistently accused Pakistan of terrorism without concrete evidence. Following a terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Kashmir on April 22, India reacted aggressively. However, U.S. intervention led to a temporary ceasefire. Just days later, terrorists attacked a school bus in Khuzdar, Balochistan, resulting in several child casualties.

Longstanding Accusations

For over three decades, terrorism has remained a contentious issue between India and Pakistan. Post-2006, Pakistan began directly accusing India of involvement in Balochistan. While India cites Ajmal Kasab in the 2008 Mumbai attacks, Pakistan counters with the 2016 arrest of Kulbhushan Yadav, an active RAW agent. Unlike Kasab, Yadav is a serving officer whose citizenship India has confirmed.

The Sharm El-Sheikh Declaration

The issue of Indian interference in Balochistan gained international visibility during the 2009 Sharm El-Sheikh summit between Pakistani PM Gilani and Indian PM Manmohan Singh. The joint statement highlighted Indian meddling in Balochistan and mutual pledges to address terror concerns.

Incidents and Lack of Indian Condemnation

India's silence after the March 2025 hijacking of Jaffar Express—where over 30 passengers were killed—was notable. Pakistani intelligence found evidence of Afghan soil being used for this attack. The foreign ministry issued a statement implicating neighboring states but avoided direct legal accusation against India.

The Guardian Report

On April 4, 2024, The Guardian reported that India's intelligence agency RAW conducted targeted killings in Pakistan since 2020. Operations were allegedly overseen by the Indian PM’s office, utilizing networks in the UAE. Financial records traced these activities back to Indian operatives.

Indian Policy Shift and Military Statements

In an interview on April 5, 2024, Indian Defense Minister Rajnath Singh stated that India would pursue terrorists even inside Pakistan, reflecting a shift to cross-border retaliation. This raised global concerns about regional stability.

Targeted Attack in Lahore

In June 2021, a bombing occurred outside Hafiz Saeed’s residence, killing 3 and injuring 20. Investigations led to the arrest of Pakistani-Canadian Peter Paul David, revealing involvement of Indians based in Dubai.

Diplomatic Thaw and Stalemates

Foreign ministers of both nations attended SCO meetings in 2023 and 2024, showing momentary goodwill. However, no substantial dialogue followed. India continued to mention LoC violations during this period.

Expected Diplomatic Gridlock

Any future counter-terror talks are likely to involve reciprocal demands: India asking for figures like Dawood Ibrahim and Hafiz Saeed, and Pakistan seeking the extradition of BLA figures. A mutual agreement to stop interfering in internal affairs and work toward regional development is essential.

Major Terror Attacks in Kashmir (2019–2025)

Feb 14, 2019 – Pulwama suicide attack: 40 CRPF soldiers killed.
Oct 29, 2019 – Kulgam massacre: 7 Bengali laborers killed.
Mar 6, 2022 – Srinagar grenade attack: 2 civilians dead, 24 injured.
Jan 21, 2023 – Rajouri attack: 6 Hindus killed, including children.
Sep 13, 2023 – Anantnag encounter: 5 Indian officers killed.
Jun 9, 2024 – Reasi bus attack: 9 killed, 41 injured.
Apr 22, 2025 – Pahalgam attack: 26 tourists killed.
May 13, 2025 – Shopian operation: Lashkar commander Shahid Katta killed.

Major Terror Attacks in Balochistan (2019–2025)

Apr 12, 2019 – Quetta bombing: 22 Hazara killed.
Apr 18, 2019 – Ormara attack: 14 passengers killed by BRAS.
Mar 24 & May 21, 2021 – Chaman bombings: 9 killed, 27 injured.
Feb 2, 2022 – Panjgur/Noshki attacks: 9 FC soldiers martyred.
Sep 29, 2023 – Mastung suicide attack: Over 60 killed.
Feb 7, 2024 – Election day bombings: 30 killed in Pishin & Killa Saifullah.
Mar 20, 2024 – Gwadar Port attack: 2 soldiers martyred, 8 militants killed.
Nov 9, 2024 – Quetta railway station bombing: 32 killed.
Mar 2025 – Jaffar Express hijacking: 30 militants, 21 civilians, and 4 troops killed.
May 6, 2025 – Kachhi bombing: 7 soldiers martyred.