Heightened Security in Pakistan Amid Independence Day Threats

Pakistan’s security forces are on high alert for Independence Day following threats from separatist groups in Balochistan. The Baloch Yakjehti Committee, labeled a proxy of terrorist organizations, disputes these claims. Recent attacks have heightened concerns, with security measures intensified across key locations nationwide.

Pakistan’s security forces are on high alert nationwide for the upcoming Independence Day celebrations. The increased security measures follow threats from separatist groups in the volatile Balochistan province, aiming to disrupt the festivities with possible terror attacks.

Last week, Director General of the Inter-Services Public Relations Lt Gen Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry accused the Baloch Yakjehti Committee (BYC) of being a proxy for terrorist organizations, a claim denied by Human Rights Activist Mahrang Baloch, who leads the BYC. She insists the group is dedicated to advocating for the rights of ethnic Baloch people and addressing issues like missing persons.

Recent violence has intensified these concerns. A blast in Quetta's Liaquat Bazar killed one and injured six, while Deputy Commissioner of Panjgur Zakir Baloch was assassinated in Mastung. Authorities suspect both separatist and Islamist militant groups, mainly the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and Islamic State Khorasan (IS-K), pose significant threats.