Maryam Nawaz announces Rs10bn support package for security forces in Balochistan

Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz on Tuesday announced Rs10 billion in financial assistance for security forces operating in Balochistan, reiterating Punjab’s commitment to peace and stability in the province.

The announcement was made during her visit to Quetta, where she attended a ceremony at the Frontier Corps (FC) Headquarters.

Her visit followed coordinated attacks carried out across 12 towns in Balochistan on January 31, which targeted civilians in areas including Quetta, Mastung, Nushki, Dalbandin, Kharan, Panjgur, Tump, Gwadar, and Pasni.

According to Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), security forces later launched Operation Raddul Fitna 1, eliminating 216 India-sponsored terrorists in various engagements and clearance operations.

The ISPR added that 36 civilians, including women and children, along with 22 personnel from security and law enforcement agencies, embraced martyrdom during these operations.

During a meeting with Balochistan Chief Minister Sarfraz Bugti, Maryam Nawaz said the financial contribution was aimed at strengthening security efforts and supporting stability in the province.

She also visited the Chief Minister’s Secretariat, where she was welcomed by CM Bugti along with members of the provincial cabinet and assembly.

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Praising the resilience of the people of Balochistan, she said their attachment to Pakistan was commendable and assured that Punjab would extend all possible cooperation in addressing the challenges faced by the province.

“We stand with Balochistan. The elimination of terrorism is possible through national unity, and we want to see peace, stability and prosperity in Balochistan,” she stated.

Earlier, the Punjab chief minister met Balochistan Governor Jaffar Khan Mandokhail at the Governor House in Quetta. The two leaders discussed the overall law and order situation, recent political developments in Balochistan, and matters of mutual interest.

Governor Mandokhail highlighted the need for concrete steps to promote inter-provincial harmony and strengthen ties between provinces. Maryam Nawaz assured him of her continued cooperation and contact in the future.

At the conclusion of the meeting, the governor presented the Punjab chief minister with a commemorative shield and a traditional carpet as a token of goodwill.