Experts Warn Pakistan May Face a Crisis Similar to Bangladesh as Crackdown Against PTI Intensifies

Tariq Bhat

The political and social landscape in Pakistan is reaching a boiling point, with experts warning of a potential crisis reminiscent of the Bangladesh liberation struggle of 1971.

 

 

 

The situation has grown particularly dire in the provinces of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan, where unrest and discontent are on the rise. The government’s harsh crackdown against the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) has further fueled tensions, as more than 10 Members of the National Assembly (MNAs) have been unlawfully arrested, with reports of two MNAs being brutally beaten. Many students have also been detained, creating an atmosphere of fear and chaos.

 

 

 

This crackdown comes amidst widespread protests led by PTI against the current government, which is being accused of authoritarianism and undemocratic practices.

 

 

 

The heavy-handed measures, including unlawful arrests and alleged mistreatment of opposition members, have drawn sharp criticism from human rights groups and the international community. Observers are increasingly drawing parallels between the current unrest in Pakistan and the events that led to the secession of Bangladesh.

 

 

 

Historically, Bangladesh was part of Pakistan from 1947 to 1971, known as East Pakistan, while the rest of the country was referred to as West Pakistan. Despite East Pakistan having a larger population, political and economic power was concentrated in West Pakistan, leading to feelings of marginalization and discontent in the eastern region.

 

 

 

The central government in Islamabad was perceived as neglecting the needs of East Pakistan, leading to economic disparities and cultural alienation.

 

 

 

 

The unrest in East Pakistan grew over the years, fueled by the central government’s focus on the development of West Pakistan while East Pakistan remained impoverished and politically sidelined. This discontent eventually culminated in a violent struggle for autonomy, and in 1971, following a brutal conflict and significant loss of life, East Pakistan declared its independence, becoming the sovereign nation of Bangladesh.

 

 

 

 

Today, similar grievances are emerging in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan, where local populations feel neglected and oppressed by Islamabad. Experts warn that Pakistan’s political landscape is at risk of fracturing further if these issues are not addressed.

 

 

 

 

The government’s reliance on force and suppression rather than dialogue is only exacerbating tensions, making the prospect of a public uprising increasingly likely.

 

 

 

 

As Pakistan grapples with its internal challenges, the memories of the Bangladesh crisis loom large. The possibility of history repeating itself underscores the urgent need for a political solution that addresses the concerns of all regions and avoids further division within the country. With the situation spiraling out of control, the coming days will be critical in determining Pakistan’s future stability and unity.