Sandeman became the Political Agent for the British-administered areas which were strategically located between British India and Afghanistan.

A military base was established at Quetta which played a major part in the Second and Third Afghan Wars.

Balochistan was legally ceded to Pakistan by its rulers in 1947 and continued to be administered by a Chief Commissioner.

The former Chief Commissioner's province was combined with the former Balochistan States Union and the enclave of Gwadar to form a new, larger Balochistan Province, with a Governor, a Chief Minister and a Provincial Assembly.

Although there was no elected legislature the Chief Commissioner could consult the Shahi Jirga, an assembly of tribal leaders.