KOHLU (Baluchistan): Prime Minister Zulfikar Ali Bhutto today [Oct 14] announced general pardon for all people who had handed over their arms to authorities in Baluchistan. … He made the announcement at a gathering of chiefs of Marri tribes here. … Mr Bhutto held out an assurance that no vindictive action would be taken against the tribesmen who had laid down their arms. The tribesmen, he said, had been pardoned in all sincerity and good faith. … While affirming his pledge to the tribesmen, Mr Bhutto counselled them not to work against the interests of the State. He told them certain disgruntled elements would again try to influence them against the Government. …

After Mr Bhutto gave his pledge on the Holy Book the tribal chieftains … pledged on the Holy Quran that they would never take up arms against the Government and that they would work for the unity of Pakistan. … “You are our brothers and we are your well-wishers,” [the PM] told the tribal chiefs. … The [PM] said “we are proud of brave and valiant Baluch people and would welcome them to join the country’s defence force. …” Later … the [PM] declared that the Government was introducing a progressive system in the tribal areas. — News agencies

Published in Dawn, October 15th, 2024