Beijing and Islamabad proudly refer to modernisation of Gwadar port in Balochistan as the “crown jewel” of the ambitious $ 62 billion China Pakistan Economic Corridor [CPEC] project that would bring about a quantum improvement in the quality of life of locals. However, instead of this happening, living conditions of Gwadar residents have paradoxically gone from bad to worse due to CPEC project activities and Chinese presence.

Gwadar is a sad story of brazen opportunism and ruthless exploitation by China compounded by Islamabad’s abject apathy that has forced its beleaguered residents to rise up in protest. However, rather than address their genuine grievances, the administration has come down on peaceful protesters with a heavy hand. With the Pakistan army being in overall control, ongoing public protests in Gwadar have conveniently been dubbed anti-national activities sponsored by foreign agencies to justify use of excessive force leading to a cycle of unending violence.

In 2007, Singapore port operator PSA International won the contract to operate Gwadar port for 40 years. Surprisingly, Pakistan’s “all weather friend” and “iron brother” Beijing didn’t participate in the bidding process. Even though this contract gave PSA several substantial........

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