The International Crises Group have come out with a report on Balochistan. The province of Balochistan , which was simmering for some time now, is in a full fledged turmoil with the state murder of Nawab Bugti. Or as ICG put it ,“ The Mushraff government is in a bind as far as Balochistan is concerned” My analysis of the ICG report and it’s recommendations appeared as part of my Monday weekly column today.
What also appeared in today’s papers is that today in Islamabad there will be a meeting chaired by the Federal Minister for Inter-Provincial Coordination Mr. Salim Saifullah Khan. The meeting is reported to look into“various issues confronting federalism in Pakistan.” What is the result of the meeting remains to be seen but the comment by the Minister is interesting. He declared,`
“Balochistan is currently getting 3.5 percent funds from the federal divisible pool on the basis of the 1972 census. I will recommend five percent funds for the Province.”
Please note that this is a recommendation (not a suggestion) given by an individual. This has not been discussed with Balochistan or any of the provinces. It has not been discussed in the National Finance Commission meetings. It has not been discussed within the Parliament. No. Not at all.
Adhocism. When will we be rid of it?
