During the Asma Jahangir Conference held in Lahore on Monday, former Chief Minister of Balochistan, Akhtar Mengal, made an unprecedented demand for the separation of Balochistan from Pakistan. Addressing an audience that included Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif's political advisor, Rana Sanaullah, Mengal emphasized that Balochistan could no longer remain a part of Pakistan, asserting that separation is now the only viable alternative. He blamed Islamabad for breaking promises made during the integration of Balochistan into Pakistan and raised serious concerns about enforced disappearances and military abuses against the people of Balochistan.

Mengal’s remarks were significant not only because of the high-profile nature of the conference but also due to his stature as a former Chief Minister. He dismissed claims that the unrest in Balochistan was solely influenced by foreign interference, suggesting instead that the root causes are deeply domestic and tied to the governance issues in Pakistan. Notably, he referenced slogans from Bangladesh's separation in 1971, arguing for a peaceful coexistence with Pakistan but on terms that recognize the rights and autonomy of Balochistan.

Following his statement, Mengal announced his resignation from the National Assembly, illustrating the serious political ramifications of his declaration. His call for separation signals a critical juncture in Balochistan’s political landscape and raises important questions regarding the future of the province within Pakistan and the potential for increased tensions in the region, especially given the historical context of ethnic and nationalist struggles in Balochistan.