The Pakistani Spectator

Mir Suleman Daud Baloch is the 35th Khan of Kalat. He is living in self-imposed exile in a posh London area and seeking asylum from the Britain authorities. Kalat is an important area in the restive Balochistan province which became part of Pakistan under an agreement signed on March 27, 1948, between Quaid-i-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah and the then Khan of Kalat Mir Ahmad Yar Khan.

The approach which is being taken by Baloch leaders like Mir Suleman cuts both ways: The tools that organize and empower people can also be used to target them. Leaders who bask in such highness status need to be held to a higher standard.

It goes without saying that the issues of Balochistan are real and nobody has addressed them in proper manner and routine all parties conferences, budget quota increases, apologies, and statements are not going to accomplish anything to win the hearts and minds of Baloch people.

But demands and approach of Khan of Kalat are also unrealistic. For example, he insists that he would only engage in dialogue with the authorities in Pakistan if they accept US, Russia or UK as mediator. That is utterly preposterous. He should talk with the Pakistani authorities and try to reach upon some meaningful and purposeful goals which could put the province at peace and on the road towards prosperity.