Operation Bunyan Marsoos is an Eye Opener for Nationalists and Separatists

In regions like Balochistan, Sindh, and Azad Jammu & Kashmir (AJK), a small but persistent wave of nationalist and separatist sentiment continues to echo. These movements, often driven by ethnic identity, historical grievances, or romanticized visions of self-rule, propose the idea of forming independent states or detaching from Pakistan. However, in an age of geopolitical realism, strategic complexity, and regional volatility, it is increasingly evident that this aspiration is not only unfeasible but also deeply counterproductive—especially given the omnipresent threat of an aggressive, hegemonic neighbor like India. Rather than chasing a utopian and dangerous dream of fragmentation, it is time for such elements to recognize that their true empowerment, safety, and progress lie in strengthening Pakistan as a whole. A united, secure, and stable Pakistan is the best defense against external threats—and the most beneficial arrangement for its diverse population.

India’s regional ambitions have long extended beyond its own borders. With a history of wars, cross-border skirmishes, and strategic encirclement, India has positioned itself as a regional hegemon with expansionist tendencies. Its actions in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu & Kashmir (IIOJK)—including the revocation of Article 370, illegal demographic changes, and suppression of dissent—offer a clear warning: India does not respect self-determination when it challenges its interests. If Pakistan were to fragment or if regions like AJK or Balochistan attempted to exist as so-called “independent” states, they would almost certainly become soft targets for Indian interference, subjugation, or outright annexation. These regions would lack the defense infrastructure, economic depth, diplomatic recognition, and military capability to resist Indian encroachment on their own. India’s intelligence operations in Pakistan, its documented support for insurgent elements, and its global lobbying against Pakistan’s interests further underline the danger of existing in isolation near such an adversary.

Nationalist and separatist movements often claim that independence would bring self-rule, prosperity, and cultural freedom. However, the evidence does not support such a vision. AJK, Balochistan, and interior Sindh are deeply integrated into Pakistan’s national economy. They rely on federal funding, cross-provincial trade, infrastructure networks, and security arrangements. As standalone entities, they lack the economic self-sufficiency, industrial capacity, or financial infrastructure to survive—let alone thrive. No major global power recognizes the separatist visions being promoted in these regions. Any attempt at secession would face international isolation, trade embargoes, and likely sanctions. Pakistan, as a nuclear power and strategic state, holds global diplomatic weight that smaller breakaway states would never match.

Ironically, many separatist movements themselves are divided along tribal, ideological, or sectarian lines. Even if granted theoretical independence, these territories risk descending into infighting, warlordism, and anarchy—a scenario that would be exploited by foreign intelligence agencies and terrorist organizations alike.

Instead of chasing fantasies that threaten to bring destruction, chaos, and foreign domination, nationalists and separatists must recognize the clear and tangible benefits of being part of a unified Pakistan. Pakistan’s powerful armed forces, nuclear deterrence, and strategic alliances offer protection to all its regions—especially those like AJK that are under constant threat from India. As part of Pakistan, these areas benefit from a national security shield that a newly independent entity could never afford or build. Pakistan has invested billions in national projects that integrate and uplift remote and underdeveloped areas. Initiatives like CPEC (China-Pakistan Economic Corridor) offer transformative potential for Balochistan, Gilgit-Baltistan, and AJK. Separating from Pakistan would mean being cut off from this growth pipeline and would result in economic isolation. The solution to grievances lies not in rebellion but in participating in Pakistan’s democratic processes. The Constitution of Pakistan offers mechanisms for representation, regional autonomy, and cultural protection. Nationalist concerns can be addressed through dialogue, legislation, and development—not violence or disunity.

Global history is full of cautionary tales where breakaway states failed to gain international traction or were swiftly overwhelmed by stronger neighbors. Consider the disintegration of Yugoslavia, the ongoing instability in parts of the Middle East, and the unresolved crises in Nagorno-Karabakh or Kurdistan. In each of these cases, minority nationalisms led to prolonged conflict, economic collapse, and humanitarian disasters. Pakistan, by contrast, offers a functioning model of federation, despite challenges. Its unity has ensured territorial integrity and national survival in the face of powerful enemies.

India has openly supported separatist rhetoric in Pakistan. From the confessions of Kulbhushan Jadhav, to the presence of RAW-funded operatives in Balochistan, to India’s aggressive propaganda campaigns against Pakistan, it is clear that encouraging internal division is part of India’s long-term strategy. By promoting nationalism and separatism within Pakistan, India hopes to weaken its neighbor from within—without needing to fire a bullet. Nationalists and separatists who align with these goals, knowingly or unknowingly, are serving enemy interests at the cost of their own people’s future.

It is time for separatist leaders, their followers, and those with nationalist inclinations in Pakistan and AJK to reassess their assumptions. Is it wise to stand alone in the shadow of a militarily and diplomatically aggressive India? Can an isolated region compete on the global stage without the support of Pakistan’s institutions, defense, and economy? Does violence, subversion, and rebellion truly serve the interests of the people, or does it only create more suffering? The logical answer is clear: Pakistan’s unity is a source of strength, not a burden. Working together to improve governance, ensure justice, and promote equity within the federation is the only path forward. In an era where nations are being tested by economic crises, regional conflicts, and geopolitical rivalries, Pakistan’s survival and success depend on internal cohesion. The fantasy of separatism is not only unrealistic—it is dangerous and self-defeating. Rather than weakening the federation from within, it is far more beneficial for nationalist and separatist-minded individuals in Pakistan and AJK to invest their energies in reform, progress, and national development. In doing so, they can uplift their communities while protecting their people from the dangers of foreign domination and regional chaos. The future belongs to those who build, not those who break. The path to dignity, prosperity, and power lies in strengthening Pakistan—not in attempting to break it apart. For nationalists, it is important to recognize that if there is no Pakistan, they cannot survive independently in the region in the presence of India. In Pakistan, there are freedoms and liberties, but these would disappear upon leaving the federation. It is unfortunate to see some individuals equate Pakistan and India, which is unrealistic and unfair. India’s international role and its treatment of minorities within its borders are evident to the world and should serve as an eye-opener for those who treat India and Pakistan equally.

Operation Bunyan Marsoos clearly conveys a message of Pakistan’s strength, assuring that everyone in Pakistan can live and work freely without fearing any internal or external enemies. Operation Bunyan Marsoos should not be seen merely as a military victory—it is a turning point in the national consciousness. It reaffirms Pakistan’s commitment to its territorial integrity and its resolve to protect every inch of its soil, whether it is in Punjab, Balochistan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, or Azad Jammu & Kashmir. More importantly, it challenges every citizen to introspect. The time has come for nationalists and separatists to abandon irrational dreams and failed ideologies. Loyalty to Pakistan is not a political slogan—it is a moral, historical, and existential necessity. The future of every Pakistani, regardless of region or ethnicity, lies not in division but in unity. And as Operation Bunyan Marsoos so powerfully demonstrated, Pakistan stands ready to defend that unity at all costs.