Kalat – a Forceful Annexation or a Decision Rooted in History?

Amidst the serene landscapes of Balochistan—where the rugged mountains of Kalat stand as silent witnesses to centuries of history—echoes a question blurred by anti-Pakistan elements: Was the accession of Kalat to Pakistan on March 27, 1948, a result of coercion or a well-calculated decision? While some label it a ‘black day,’ historical records tell a vastly different story. Beyond the whispers of propaganda lies a narrative deeply rooted in diplomacy, mutual respect, and the pursuit of stability.

The Historical Fabric of Balochistan

Balochistan’s integration into Pakistan was not a forced annexation but a culmination of historical ties, diplomatic engagements, and legal agreements. The present Balochistan was an Agency created in 1877 by the British Crown through the Treaties of Mastung (1854), Kalat (1875), and Jacobabad (1876), negotiated by Sir Robert Sandeman.

By 1947, Balochistan consisted of:

• Chief Commissioner’s Balochistan: A British protectorate with Quetta as its headquarters.
• Princely States: Kalat, Kharan, Makran, and Lasbela.
• Gwadar: A region ruled by Oman.

The famous tribal governance model, the Sandeman System, ensured peace in the region through financial inducements given to Sardars in Baloch areas and Maliks in Khyber Pukhtunkhuwa/FATA.

Kalat: A History of Shifting Allegiances

Kalat, a Brahui Khanate, was captured by the Mirwaris (originally from Oman) in the 15th century. It changed hands between the Mughals and Afghans and was part of Kandahar province in Durrani Afghanistan before British occupation in 1839. Through treaties, the Khan of Kalat lost political control outside Kalat State and accepted a British Political Agent to arbitrate intra-Baloch disputes in exchange for financial aid and military support.

The Royal Delhi Durbar of 1903 granted the states of Kalat, Kharan, Makran, and Lasbela the status of princely states, with Kalat exercising nominal suzerainty. However, Nawabs of Sarawan and Jhalawan were excluded from the Durbar, signaling that they were under Kalat’s overlordship.

1947: The Year of Decision

As the British prepared to leave India in 1947, the fate of princely states like Kalat became a pressing issue. Kalat’s ruler, Khan Mir Ahmad Yar Khan, declared independence on August 15, 1947, citing Kalat’s historical sovereignty. However, Kharan, Makran, and Lasbela rejected Kalat’s claims of suzerainty and independently sought accession to Pakistan.

On 11 August 1947, the Khan committed to negotiating accession with Jinnah. However, Kharan’s ruler, Mir Habibullah Khan Nowsherwani, lamented the delay and expressed a strong desire to join Pakistan independently. Similarly, the Jam of Lasbela, Jam Ghulam Qadir Khan (grandfather of former Balochistan’s Chief Minister Jam Kamal), and Nawab Bai Khan Gichki of Makran urged Jinnah to accept their immediate accession to Pakistan.

The Shahi Jirga’s Overwhelming Vote for Pakistan

In 1947, the Shahi Jirga of Quetta Municipality overwhelmingly voted in favor of joining Pakistan, largely due to the strong advocacy of Qazi M Essa, the head of the Balochistan Provincial Muslim League. While the Khan of Kalat initially sought independence, he ultimately faced mounting pressure from internal factions and external realities, leading to a shift in his stance.

Indian Ministry of State’s False Claim

A critical turning point came when V.P. Menon, Secretary of India’s Ministry of States, announced on All India Radio that the Khan of Kalat had requested to join India. This claim, later denied by Indian Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru, aimed to disrupt Pakistan’s consolidation process and create confusion in the region.

Facing mounting pressure and realizing that independence or joining India were not viable options, the Khan of Kalat ultimately chose to accede to Pakistan.

Voluntary Accession of Kalat 

On March 27, 1948, the Khan of Kalat signed the Instrument of Accession after careful consultation with local leaders. Contrary to Indian propaganda, this decision was a strategic move, acknowledging Pakistan’s political and military stability as the most viable option for Kalat. Despite efforts to stir controversy over Balochistan’s accession, historical records refute these claims. The Khan of Kalat willingly acceded to Pakistan, recognizing it as the best political choice.

Balochistan’s Contributions

Balochistan’s bond with Pakistan was cemented through actions, not just words. The Khan of Kalat honored Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah by gifting gold and silver, later donated to the Bank of England to support Pakistan’s currency printing. Quaid-e-Azam visited the Royal Palace of Kalat twice, in 1945 and 1948, where the Khan had reserved two of the most luxurious rooms on the top floor for Jinnah and his sister, Fatima Jinnah. 

Reflecting on these visits, Prince Agha Umar Jan Ahmedzai, the Khan’s grandson, remarked, “During Mr. Jinnah’s two visits, he was welcomed by the people of Balochistan because we knew he was leading a sacred cause for the Muslims of the British-ruled Subcontinent.” These heartfelt gestures dismantle the propaganda, showcasing Kalat’s deep commitment to Pakistan’s sovereignty and economic stability.

Integration of Gwadar

Gwadar, a 15,210 sq km coastal territory, officially became part of Pakistan on December 8, 1958, after its purchase from Oman. Pakistan’s then Prime Minister Feroz Khan Noon’s diplomatic efforts secured Gwadar from Sultan Said bin Taimur of Oman, further consolidating Pakistan’s territorial integrity.

Also See: Balochistan’s Resilience: Overcoming Terror and Embracing Hope

Balochistan is Pakistan—A Reality Cemented in History

Balochistan’s integration into Pakistan was a carefully negotiated and consensual process. The Khan of Kalat measured Jinnah as an honor, not once but twice—first with gold and then with silver. The voluntary accession in 1948 was not an act of coercion but a decision based on political pragmatism, ensuring Balochistan’s future within a stable and secure Pakistan.

Balochistan has stood by Pakistan not just in words but through actions that resonate through history. The people of Balochistan have been integral to Pakistan’s political framework since its formation, contributing significantly to national politics and governance. The narrative of forced annexation is a myth propagated to sow discord, but the reality remains that Balochistan’s destiny was—and remains—inseparably linked with Pakistan.