A Baloch nationalist leader has warned that China may deploy its troops in Pakistan’s Balochistan province in the near future, calling it a serious security threat for the region and for India. Mir Yar Baloch, a prominent Baloch leader and human rights activist, raised the concern in an open letter addressed to India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar.
In the letter, written from Pakistan soil, Mir Yar Baloch said China’s expanding strategic and economic interests in Balochistan, particularly through the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), could soon take a military form. He cautioned that if the situation continues unchecked, Chinese forces could be stationed in Balochistan “within months,” without the consent of the Baloch people.
Describing Balochistan as a conflict-hit region with a long history of unrest, Mir Yar Baloch alleged that Pakistan has allowed external powers to gain influence while ignoring the rights and aspirations of the local population. He claimed that a Chinese military presence would further marginalise the Baloch community and destabilise South Asia, posing long-term risks to India’s security as well.
The Baloch leader also referred to what he described as continued human rights violations in the province and reiterated that Baloch nationalist groups had declared independence from Pakistan in 2025. He said Baloch leaders are planning global diplomatic outreach in 2026 to highlight their demands for self-determination and international recognition.
In the same letter, Mir Yar Baloch praised India’s recent counter-terror operation, Operation Sindoor, which targeted terror infrastructure linked to Pakistan. He described the operation as a strong message against terrorism and commended India’s resolve to protect its citizens and regional stability.
Highlighting cultural and civilisational links between India and Balochistan, he mentioned shared heritage sites and historical ties, arguing that both regions have common interests in peace and security. He expressed hope that India would continue to raise concerns about Balochistan at international forums.
China and Pakistan have repeatedly maintained that CPEC is a purely economic project and have denied any plans for military deployment. India, however, has consistently opposed the corridor, citing sovereignty issues and security concerns, especially in Pakistan-occupied regions.
The letter adds a new dimension to the geopolitical debate around Balochistan, China’s regional role, and India-Pakistan tensions.
