Religious scholar Maulana Manzoor Ahmed Mengal has expressed serious concern over the prevailing situation in Balochistan, stating that the government has effectively lost control over large parts of Balochistan.
Addressing a conference in Karachi, Maulana Mengal said the Chief Minister of Balochistan is unable to travel even to Khuzdar without a helicopter, reflecting the deteriorating security and governance situation. He added that conditions in other areas of Balochistan are even worse.
He said that the writ of the Balochistan government is limited to a small area of Quetta, while the rest of the area remains neglected and unstable.
Maulana Mengal also questioned recent statements by a religious figure who advised labeling people as Kharijites, referring to the euphemism that Pakistan’s security apparatus has taken to calling the Tehree-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP). He asked under what authority such declarations were being made and whether those issuing them had any real understanding of the historical and ideological background of Kharijism.
Stressing the need for unity, he said that all stakeholders must come to a consensus and take responsibility, remarking that “someone will have to bell the cat.”
Referring to recent developments, Maulana Mengal said that 96 religious seminaries were recently included in lists linked to “terrorism” allegations. He stated that the names of respected institutions, including Jamia Darul Uloom and seminaries associated with Banuri Town, were also mentioned, despite the presence of innocent scholars.
He warned that a conspiracy was underway to deepen sectarian divisions, alleging that religious seminaries were being deliberately targeted by separating them from Sunni movements.
Maulana Mengal appealed to the public, saying that if people are donating to religious seminaries, accountability can be demanded. However, he questioned why there should be objections if Muslims voluntarily give donations to religious institutions.
Concluding his address, he emphasised that unity among religious and social groups is essential to counter these challenges and prevent further division.