Arif Aajakia Accuses Pakistan of Harboring Terrorists and Exploiting Balochistan

Aajakia specifically pointed to the presence of high-profile figures like Masood Azhar as proof of state complicity, alleging that terrorist organizations continue to operate freely from camps in regions like Bahawalpur. He drew parallels to the historical discovery of global fugitives such as Osama Bin Laden and Abu Zubaydah within Pakistani borders, suggesting these incidents were not isolated anomalies but symptomatic of a broader state policy.

Beyond security concerns, the activist highlighted the economic exploitation of Balochistan, claiming that the region’s vast mineral wealth—including copper, gold, and natural gas—is funneled to Punjab while local communities endure severe poverty. He cited the example of Sui, where residents still rely on wood for fuel decades after their local gas reserves began powering the rest of the country. According to Aajakia, these disparities, coupled with extrajudicial killings, have fueled growing local movements demanding independence.

Turning to Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir, Aajakia argued that the spread of social media has fundamentally altered public perception. Residents now have the ability to compare their own lack of infrastructure, water, and food security against the development in the Indian-administered side of the region. He claimed this exposure has led many to conclude they are being exploited by Islamabad rather than marginalized by external forces. Aajakia concluded by urging the United States and the European Union to move beyond geopolitical interests and hold the Pakistani government legally accountable for its record on civil and political rights.