Security Alone Not Enough: DC Sibi Calls for United Civil Front Against Violent Extremism

Independent Report
SIBI, Feb 12: Deputy Commissioner Sibi, Major (R) Ilyas Kibzai, has underscored that violent extremism stems from deep-rooted social and structural deficiencies in addition to security concerns, asserting that only a comprehensive “whole-of-society” response can effectively counter the threat.
He made these remarks while presiding over a seminar organized to observe the International Day for the Prevention of Violent Extremism. The event brought together Wing Commander Colonel Shahryar, SSP Sibi Shah Nawaz Chachar, Assistant Commissioner Sibi Mansoor Ali Shah, Chairman Sardar Muhammad Khan Khajjak, religious scholars, teachers, students, political representatives and members of different schools of thought.
In his address, DC Kibzai highlighted that the National Policy for Prevention of Violent Extremism (NPVE) 2024 seeks to tackle the underlying causes and driving factors behind extremism, while fostering human rights, inclusivity and societal harmony. He noted that the policy promotes evidence- and data-driven measures to effectively counter extremist ideologies and narratives.
He stressed that reliance solely on security interventions would not suffice, as extremism is closely linked with societal gaps and systemic shortcomings. Therefore, he emphasized the importance of coordinated efforts involving the government, civil society, religious leaders, media and educational institutions.
Referring specifically to Balochistan, the deputy commissioner pointed out the need for context-sensitive policymaking and dialogue-based engagement tailored to local conditions.
He further outlined a range of provincial initiatives aimed at empowering youth and addressing root causes of radicalization. These include the Balochistan Youth Policy 2025, BEEF scholarships, Chief Minister Merit Scholarships for leading PhD programmes, Benazir Bhutto Scholarship Programme, technical and vocational training schemes, Chief Minister Youth Skills Development and Overseas Employment Programme, Public-Private Partnership (PPP) projects, women mobility initiatives, the Green Bus Project, Balochistan Health Card Programme, merit-based recruitment of teachers and the Balochistan Development Special Initiative (BDSI).
According to him, these measures are generating constructive avenues for young people and contributing to the reduction of extremist tendencies. He remarked that the broader goal is not merely to address immediate security concerns but to eliminate the foundational drivers of extremism and steer the province toward lasting stability and prosperity.
DC Kibzai also revealed that a major e-commerce facility is being set up at Mir Chakar Khan Rind University, Sibi, to create online employment opportunities for youth, students and women.
He advised parents to remain vigilant regarding their children’s activities and social interactions to safeguard them from potentially harmful influences.
Other speakers, including Wing Commander Colonel Shahryar, SSP Shah Nawaz Chachar, Assistant Commissioner Mansoor Ali Shah, religious scholars and students, also addressed the gathering. They collectively emphasized unity, adherence to law, tolerance and shared responsibility as key pillars for maintaining peace.
The seminar concluded with participants renewing their commitment to combating extremism and working jointly to promote a peaceful and cohesive society.