MQM against military operation in Balochistan, says Altaf

Muttahida Qaumi Movement (MQM) does not like any military operation or use of force in Balochistan and would not join government efforts in such actions. This was stated by Altaf Hussain, founder and leader of MQM in his telephonic address direct from London on inaugural of roundtable conference on issues of "Balochistan and their solution" organised by MQM here on Friday afternoon.
The conference was chaired by Dr Farooq Sattar, Deputy Convenor MQM Rabita Committee and MQM parliamentary leader in National Assembly. Senator Babar Ghauri, Shameem Khan, Dr Aamir Liaquat, Safwanullah and other MQM leaders also attended.
Leader and representatives from 11 parties including Sardar Akhtar Mengal and Habib Jalib (BNP-Mengal), Mir Abdul Jabbar and Mir Humayun Marri (JWP), Mir Hasil Bizenjo (National Party), Arbab Abdul Zahir (ANP), Senator Naseer Mengal, Asim Kurd Gallo, Arbab Muhammad Hashim, Syed Aslam Shah and Begum Rubina Irfan (PML), Muhammad Ibrahim Hazara (Hazara Democratic Party), Malik Ahmad Shah Lehri (PML-Junejo), Ghulam Muhammad Baloch (Balochistan National Movement), Dr Hakeem Lehri (Balochistan National Congress), Nazar Muhammad Mengal (BNP-Awami) and Karamatullah (PPP-Sherpao) attended.
He asked rulers to invite Baloch leaders, nationalists to Islamabad and provide them opportunity to give their points of view or those in Islamabad should come to Balochistan for this purpose. He said use of force should be avoided. It does not created love among the affectees rather hatred promotes.
Altaf was of the view that Pakistan needs unity under the prevalent environment as it cannot afford unrest in the country.
He said culprits involved in Dr Shazia Khalid's gang rape should be arrested and awarded exemplary punishment.
He said whatever development works are being carried out in Balochistan should be completed through Baloch people. Federal government should seek their opinion and suggestions. These projects must not be completed by force.
Altaf Hussain said that MQM would raise voice shoulder to shoulder with Baloch people at all fora and they would found Muttahida along with them against excesses.
He said that all the provinces should be given autonomy. Ensuring provincial autonomy to provinces, Pakistan would become safe. Use of force should be avoided and people of Balochistan must be given their rights. He asked Baloch leaders to raise voice for their rights in Balochistan shoulder to shoulder with Muttahida Qaumi Movement.