Use of force would be last option in Balochistan: Pak Prez

Pakistan President Mamnoon Hussain underlining the need for a negotiated settlement of issues relating to Balochistan has said that use of force would be the "last option" for the government there.

Hussain said the ruling government was trying to find an amicable solution to the manifold problems in the troubled province by holding dialogue with disgruntled elements.

"The government is working to pave the way for having dialogue with the disgruntled Baloch leaders. Restoration of peace through political means remains first priority of the government," he stated.

The President told the Balochistan Cabinet yesterday that use of force against disgruntled elements would be the last option for the government in Balochistan.

Baluchistan is a mineral and resource rich province but has been hit by insurgency, sectarian violence and militancy in recent years.

President Hussain is visiting the volatile province at a time when insurgents in particular have stepped up attacks and yesterday morning a bomb blast in a train at the Sibi railway station killed at least 16 people and left over 40 injured.

The separatist United Baloch Army has claimed responsibility for the attack.

The Pakistan government has from time to time talked about Indian involvement being behind the troubled situation in the province.

The President said that efforts were being made to bring the social, development and welfare facilities in the province at par with other parts of the country.

Attacks on frontier corp and police officials or soldiers and on government and security installations has become a usual occurrence in the restive southwestern province.