Bilawal Bhutto urges peace in Balochistan, criticizes flood aid delay

Karachi: Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari has stressed that the issue of Balochistan must be resolved through politics, not force. Speaking to media in Karachi, he said that the people of Balochistan have real grievances that require attention. He warned that terrorism remains Pakistan’s biggest threat and that only political unity can lead to lasting peace. Bilawal also accused India of funding terrorist groups and said Pakistan is raising the issue at international forums.

Turning to recent disasters, Bilawal highlighted the devastation caused by floods in Punjab, Gilgit-Baltistan, and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. He urged the federal government to provide strong support through the Benazir Income Support Program (BISP). He criticized the slow response, asking why the government had not launched a global appeal for help. He questioned why BISP was not fully activated, despite being hailed as a key social safety net by the same government.

Bilawal said urgent measures are needed to avoid a food crisis. He called for negotiations with the IMF over wheat support prices and vowed to help Sindh’s farmers through the Hari Card scheme. He welcomed the Prime Minister’s decision to declare an agricultural emergency and waive electricity bills for flood victims. But he stressed that more must be done, including tax relief and sustained support for affected farmers.

He praised the recent Saudi-Pakistan agreement, saying it had been well-received by the public. He announced that more details would be shared in a special in-camera briefing. On a personal note, Bilawal welcomed his cousin, Zulfikar Ali Bhutto Jr., into politics. He wished him well and clarified that no one from his immediate family had made any negative remarks about him.

Bilawal ended his address by calling on the federal government to step up and lead in times of national crisis. He emphasized that political stability, farmer support, and a strong disaster response are all essential for Pakistan’s future. He said, “The people need unity, not blame games, and action, not delay.”Pakistan travel guide