Psychological Warfare in Balochistan – Nadir Baloch

By: Nadir Baloch

Psychological warfare is a form of non-violent, often covert tactics used to influence and manipulate the enemy’s thinking and behaviour. It aims to demoralize, intimidate, and confuse the enemy or opposition, often through the use of propaganda, disinformation, and other psychological manipulation techniques.

During World War II  both the Allies and the Axis powers used propaganda to influence public opinion and boost morale. Adolf Hitler’s Minister of Propaganda, Joseph Goebbels, famously said, “If you tell a lie big enough and keep repeating it, people will eventually come to believe it.” The use of psychological warfare during the Cold War, where both the United States and the Soviet Union used various tactics to influence each other’s populations and those of their allies. This included radio broadcasts, leaflet drops, and covert operations aimed at sowing discord and undermining the enemy’s will to fight. On a more modern note, social media has become a battleground for psychological warfare, with various governments and militaries using disinformation and fake news to manipulate public opinion both domestically and internationally. Psychological warfare is a powerful tool that can have long-lasting effects. It is essential to be aware of the tactics used and to critically analyze information to avoid falling victim to manipulation. As Winston Churchill famously said, “The truth is incontrovertible. Malice may attack it, ignorance may deride it, but in the end, there it is.”

The struggle for freedom in Balochistan has gained international attention. For decades, the Baloch people have been fighting for their right to self-determination and independence from Pakistan. However, what many may not realize is the extent to which Pakistan is using psychological warfare tactics to suppress the Baloch’s efforts. In this article, we will delve into the various forms of psychological warfare being employed by Pakistan against the Baloch struggle for freedom, to illustrate the gravity of the situation.

Psychological warfare being used by Pakistan is the dissemination of false narratives and propaganda. The Pakistani government and military have created a false narrative that portrays the Baloch people as terrorists to delegitimize their struggle for freedom. This narrative is then propagated through various mediums such as state-controlled media, textbooks, and even social media. For example, the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) and other militant groups fighting for Balochistan’s independence are labelled as terrorist organizations. This not only demonizes these groups but also attempts to paint the entire Baloch population as violent and extreme. The state also uses tactics to instil fear and terror in the Baloch population. The military’s brutal tactics, such as enforced disappearances, extrajudicial killings, and torture, are meant to create a climate of fear and submission. This tactic is aimed at silencing any dissent and resistance towards the Pakistani government and its control over Balochistan. According to Human Rights Watch, there have been over 8,000 enforced disappearances in Balochistan since 2009. Many of those who have disappeared are activists and human rights defenders who have been critical of Pakistan’s policies.

Another form of psychological warfare used by Pakistan is the manipulation of resources and aid. The Pakistani government and military control most of the resources, including natural gas and minerals. However, instead of using these resources for development, they are often exploited for the benefit of Pakistan while the Baloch people are left in poverty and deprivation. This tactic of resource exploitation not only weakens the Baloch economy and limits their ability to fight for their rights but also creates a sense of dependency, making it harder for them to break free from the Pakistani government’s control. The Pakistani government’s policy is to divide and conquer the Baloch people.

The government has long pitted different tribes and communities against each other, creating internal conflicts and divisions within the population. By doing so, Pakistan weakens the Baloch resistance and makes it easier to control and suppress their struggle for freedom.

Pakistan’s use of psychological warfare against the Baloch struggle for freedom is a grave violation of human rights and international law. It is a calculated and deliberate attempt to suppress the Baloch people’s legitimate demand for independence. The false narrative, fear and terror tactics, resource manipulation, and division tactics employed by Pakistan all aim to weaken the Baloch resistance and maintain their control over Balochistan. The international community must recognize and condemn these psychological warfare tactics and support the Baloch people in their quest for freedom. Only through awareness and action can we stand in solidarity with the Baloch people and their struggle for freedom.

The Baloch activists are facing challenges in the form of Pakistan’s psychological warfare. However, the Baloch activists are not powerless in the face of such tactics. With a strategic approach and a united front, they can effectively counter psychological warfare. First and foremost, the Baloch activists need to understand the tactics. These tactics include propaganda, disinformation, intimidation, and coercion. By recognizing these tactics, the activists can anticipate and prepare for them, and not fall victim to their effects. One of the most effective ways to counter psychological warfare is by exposing the truth. Pakistan’s propaganda thrives on spreading false information and painting a picture of the Baloch people as violent. The Baloch activists must use their platforms and influence to debunk these lies and present the true narrative of their struggle. This can be done through social media, online blogs, and other forms of digital advocacy.

An important aspect of countering Pakistan’s psychological warfare is presenting a united front. The Baloch activists must work together, setting aside any differences, to present a strong and cohesive message. This will not only showcase the strength and determination of the Baloch people but also make it harder for Pakistan to sow discord and division among them. Additionally, the Baloch activists can counter Pakistan’s disinformation by actively engaging with international media and human rights organizations. By sharing their stories and providing factual evidence, the activists can bring the attention of the international community to the human rights violations and atrocities being committed by Pakistan. This can help to garner support and put pressure on Pakistan to stop its psychological warfare and address the issues.

Furthermore, the Baloch activists can also utilize psychological tactics themselves. By staying resilient and not giving in to the fear and intimidation tactics. the activists can display their strength and determination. They can also use positive messaging and empowerment strategies to inspire and motivate the Baloch people to stay united. Lastly, the Baloch activists must prioritize self-care and mental well-being. Pakistan’s psychological warfare is designed to break the spirit and will of the Baloch people. By taking care of themselves, the activists can remain strong and resilient, and not succumb to the psychological pressure. Pakistan’s psychological warfare is a formidable challenge for the Baloch activists. However, by understanding their tactics, presenting a united front, and actively countering their disinformation, the activists can effectively combat this insidious tactic. With determination, resilience, and strategic actions, the Baloch activists can counter psychological warfare and continue their fight for justice and freedom.