Forgotten Balochistan

[FearlessRoar]

Barrick Gold delegation meets PM: Reko Diq feasibility study due by year-end​

A delegation from Barrick Gold Company, led by Chief Executive Officer Mark Bristow, met Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif on Friday. They informed him that the feasibility study for the Reko Diq project in Balochistan would be completed by the end of the current year.

The prime minister expressed his belief that the Reko Diq project would be a game changer for the development of Balochistan and the wider region. He stated, "This project will usher in a new era of development of the province and prosperity of the people."

He also said planning would be done regarding communication infrastructure, particularly railway lines, to fully utilise Balochistan's mineral resources.

Furthermore, the prime minister urged Barrick Gold to consider investing in other mineral projects within the province. He suggested potential collaboration between the government and Barrick Gold to establish a technical university in Chagai district.

The government, he noted, is committed to facilitating investors, particularly in the areas of road and communication systems.

In terms of the progress of the Reko Diq project, the Barrick Gold delegation reported that the feasibility study would indeed be concluded by the end of the current year. They highlighted the company's prioritisation of employing local and Balochistan domiciled individuals for the project.

Additionally, Barrick Gold disclosed their efforts in corporate social responsibility, including the establishment of three schools near Reko Diq and the provision of technical training to 100 individuals, including women.

The meeting was attended by Petroleum Minister Musadik Malik, Federal Minister for Law and Justice Azam Nazir Tarar, Deputy Chairman of the Planning Commission Muhammad Jehanzeb, and other relevant senior government officials.

Reko Diq feasibility nears completion | The Express Tribune

Saudi Fund for Development delegation calls on PM

tribune.com.pk

PM directs to ensure foolproof security of Reko Diq project workers, logistics​

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Sunday underscored the importance of safeguarding workers involved in the Reko Diq project, pledging to ensure their security and smooth logistics from Reko Diq to the port, Radio Pakistan reported.

In a meeting in Lahore, chaired by the prime minister, focusing on mines and minerals of Balochistan with a special emphasis on the Reko Diq project, PM Shehbaz stressed the need for meticulous planning, particularly concerning the communication infrastructure such as the railway line, to fully exploit the mineral resources in Balochistan.

Instructions were issued during the meeting for the immediate upgrading of existing road networks to link the Reko Diq project with Gwadar via road.

The premier also urged consultation with all stakeholders at official levels to address any obstacles hindering the project's progress.

Furthermore, Shehbaz called for expediting the completion of under-construction roads and strategizing the feasibility of a railway network from Reko Diq to Gwadar port.

Highlighting the benefits of the proposed railway project, the prime minister mentioned that it would facilitate swift access and reduce distance compared to Karachi’s Bin Qasim port, particularly benefiting the mineral-rich district of Chaghai and promoting the mining industry.

Seeking further insights, the prime minister requested a detailed briefing next week on the Reko Diq project and rail connectivity.

Moreover, he directed the removal of all official hurdles to complete the environmental and social impact assessment concerning the Reko Diq project.

It was disclosed during the meeting that the feasibility study for the Reko Diq project is set to conclude by the end of the year, with plans for transporting 6,000 containers monthly from Reko Diq to the port.

Additionally, attendees were informed that the project's concentrate pipeline would be the world's second-longest slurry pipeline, and the mining company would construct a link road from Reko Diq to National Highway-40.

Progress updates were provided, revealing that 58 per cent of the construction work on the 103-kilometre road from Naukundi to Mashkhel, connecting Reko Diq with Gwadar, has been completed.

Among the attendees was a delegation from Barrick Gold Company, led by its Chief Executive Officer Mark Bristow.

PM directs to ensure security of Reko Diq project workers | The Express Tribune

Shehbaz urges consultation with all stakeholders to address any obstacles hindering project's progress

tribune.com.pk

 

[FearlessRoar]

I hope it will bring economic stability to Balochistan.

 

[FearlessRoar]

Balochistan CM’s victory in election challenged in tribunal​

Gohram Bugti in his petition questioned, how could Sarfaraz Bugti be allowed to contest election from Balochistan Assembly’s constituency PB-10 (Dera Bugti). “As a minister of the caretaker cabinet, he could not contest the election,”, petitioner argued.

According to the petition, Sarfaraz Bugti got posting of his favorite polling staff, resigned from cabinet and contested the election.

“In papers he bagged votes with 80 to 99 percent ratio in the election and this ratio of vote casting is impossible in any election,” he petitioned.

Gohram Bugti pleaded to the tribunal for thumb verification of voters in the election.

“How could Sarfaraz Bugti keeps the assembly’s membership, when he was ineligible to contest the election,” the rival candidate said.

Gohram Bugti pleaded to the tribunal to declare the PB-10 seat vacant and announce by election in the constituency.

Balochistan CM's victory in election challenged in tribunal

ISLAMABAD: Jamhoori Watan Party's Gohram Bugti has challenged Balochistan Chief Minister Sarfaraz Bugti's election victory in tribunal, ARY News reported

arynews.tv

 

[BouncerGuy]

Protesting teachers in Quetta seek salaries

Hundreds of teachers, along with members of staff of the Balochistan University, staged a sit-in, in front of the Balochistan Assembly, on Monday.

After the sit-in, they marched on the main roads of the provincial capital against the non-payment of their salaries for the last four months, which they said had caused great financial difficulties.

They assembled within the university and took out a rally, which passed through the main Sariab Road, Jinnah Road and Zarghoon Road and finally reached the provincial assembly which was in session at the time.

The demonstrators carried placards and banners inscribed with their demands and chanted slogans in favour of their demands.They were led by Dr Kaleemullah and other leaders of the joint action committee.

They set up a camp, outside the assembly gate to block the entry of individuals into the premises. However, people used alternative gates for entering the assembly.

Members of the assembly brought the protest to the notice of speaker retired captain Abdul Khaliq Achakzai’s.

The speaker formed a five member committee, comprising Mir Saddiq Umrani, Mir Ali Madad Jattak, Rehmat Saleh Baloch, Agha Umar Ahmedzai and Wali Muhammad Nourzai to listen to the protestors demands.

The committee held negotiations with the joint action committee leaders, who informed them of their grievances and told them that university employees, including teaching staff, have not received salaries, which caused financial hardship.

The committee assured the joint action committee that issues relating to their salaries and pensions would be resolved, as soon as possible.

They said that Balochistan Chief Minister Sarfraz Bugti has already approved a grant for universities to resolve financial crises.

Funds would be disbursed in coming days, the assembly members assured the teachers.

Following the assurances by the house committee, the joint action committee announced to end the protest.

However, they announced to resume the sit-in outside the main gate of the university, until the issue of delayed salaries was resolved once and for all.

SOURCE: DAWN

 

[FearlessRoar]

Saudis may invest $1b in Reko Diq​

According to finance ministry sources, the shares of Oil and Gas Development Company Limited (OGDCL) and Pakistan Petroleum Limited (PPL) will be sold to the Kingdom.

Saudi Arabia is expected to invest in the project next month.

The sources said Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif would form a finance ministry committee for the Kingdom’s investment in the project.

The committee will include OGDCL, PPL and energy ministry officials.

The sources continued that the finance and energy ministries would send a summary to the premier for the formation of the committee.

After the formation of the committee, its members will leave for Saudi Arabia for the final discussion on its investment.

Later, Pakistan and Saudi Arabia will sign an agreement for the latter’s investment in the Reko Diq Project.

Previous governments have also been claiming that this mining project is a game-changer and that Balochistan can receive 33% financial benefits from it.

In August last year, Barrick Gold, which owns a 50% stake in the project with the remaining 50% owned by the governments of Pakistan and the province of Balochistan, said it was open to bringing in Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF) as one of its partners in the mine.

Earlier in the month, the military-dominated Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC) had approved the hiring of consultants to reduce the shareholdings of Pakistan and Barrick Gold equally in favour of Saudi Arabia in the Reko Diq Project.

However, its CEO Mark Bristow made it clear that Barrick would not dilute its equity in the project.

He added that Barrick would support PIF coming into the mine through the Pakistani federal government’s 25% equity stake.

In the year 2022, Barrick Gold ended a long-running dispute with Pakistan in an out-of-court agreement and agreed to restart development

Under the deal, the company withdrew its case in an international arbitration court, which had slapped a penalty of $11 billion on Pakistan for suspending the contracts of the firm and its partners in 2011.

The company’s licence to mine the untapped deposits was cancelled after the Supreme Court ruled illegal the award granted to it and its partner, Chile’s Antofagasta.

Antofagasta had agreed to exit the project, saying its growth strategy was focused on production of copper and by-products in the Americas.

“The new project company shall be owned 50% by Barrick Gold. The remaining 50% shareholding shall be owned by Pakistan, divided equally between the federal government and the provincial government of Balochistan,” a statement from the office of Prime Minister’s Office read after the signing ceremony in Islamabad.

Saudis may invest $1b in Reko Diq | The Express Tribune

Shares of OGDCL, PPL will be sold to Kingdom if it happens

tribune.com.pk

 

[Cricket Warrior]

Policeman martyred, 12 injured in Quetta blast

A policeman was martyred, while 12 individuals were injured in a blast near a mosque situated on Kuchlak Road in Quetta, Aaj News reported on Monday.

The injured were rushed to nearby medical facilities for medical treatment.

Meanwhile, law enforcement agencies cordoned off the area and launched an investigation into the incident to determine the nature and cause of the explosion.

Security personnel have been deployed to maintain order and security in the aftermath of the blast.

The province has witnessed a surge in terrorism activities of late.

In February, at least 12 people were killed and 25 injured in a blast outside a political party’s office in Balochistan’s Pishin region.

Separately, at least 12 people were killed and several injured in a blast that occurred near the JUI-F election office in Balochistan’s Qila Saifullah.

Policeman martyred, 12 injured in Quetta blast

A policeman was martyred, while 12 individuals were injured in a blast near a mosque situated on Kuchlak Road in...

www.brecorder.com

 

[BouncerGuy]

This province is treated like a discarded child. No one Is serious about this region.

----------------------------------

9 passengers killed after gunmen check ID cards, abduct them from bus near Noshki

Nine people were killed near Noshki, Balochistan in the early hours of Saturday, when gunmen forced them off a bus they were travelling in and shot them, officials said.

“About 10-12 gunmen blockaded the National Highway in the vicinity of Sultan Charhai near Noshki and abducted nine passengers from a bus,” Deputy Commissioner Habibulla Musakhel told Dawn.com. They checked the identity cards of passengers from a Taftan-bound bus and kidnapped them.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif strongly condemned the attack and sought a report into the incident, according to a post on X by PML-N.

He expressed his condolences to the victims’ families, saying: “We stand with the bereaved families in this hour of grief.”

The premier said the perpetrators of this incident of terrorism and their facilitators will be punished.

He also reaffirmed his commitment to wipe out the menace of terrorism from the root.

Meanwhile, Chief Minister Balochistan Mir Sarfraz Bugti expressed deep grief and sorrow over the sad incident, Radio Pakistan reported. He said terrorists would be dealt with iron hands and vowed that terrorists would not succeed in their nefarious designs.

DAWN

 

[BouncerGuy]

Govt vows tough action after Noshki tragedy

Nine people, who planned to reach Europe to live a better life, were shot dead in Balochistan in the small hours of Saturday. The gunmen abducted them from a Taftan-bound bus based on their ethnicity and dumped their bodies under a bridge in a hilly area of Noshki.

In a similar attack possibly by the same gunmen, another two people were killed after they attempted to escape the cordon set up by the assailants on N-40, the Quetta-Noshki Highway.

A spokesperson for the banned Balochistan Liberation Army claimed responsibility for the killings.

According to officials, armed men blocked the highway and started intercepting the vehicles. Soon, they intercepted a passenger coach on its way to Taftan from Quetta and looted the belongings of passengers, including cash and mobile phones.

After checking the identity cards of the passengers, the gunmen separated nine passengers — who had Punjab as their residential address — and took them away at gunpoint.

According to the national identity cards, the victims hailed from Wazirabad, Gujranwala, and Mandi Bahauddin.

Upon receiving the information, law enforcement agencies launched a search operation to recover the kidnapped passengers — most of them in their early 20s. However, they were tipped off about the presence of bullet-riddled bodies under a bridge in the hilly terrain of Noshki.

“All the nine people had received multiple bullet injuries on their bodies and were shot at a close range by the abductors,” senior police official Asad Mengal, deployed at the Noshki police station, told Dawn.

“The victims were travelling in the passenger coach on their way to Taftan,” Habibullah Musakhail, Noshki deputy commissioner told Dawn. He added that 10 to 12 armed men blocked the highway, abducted nine people and later killed them.

About the two other deaths, the officials said the two people died in the firing in the same Sultan hilly area of Noshki.

They said a car that tried to force its way through the gunmen’s cordon was fired upon, killing one passenger and injuring four others in the car.

“When the car did not stop, the armed men opened fire at the vehicle, bursting its tyres. As a result, the car turned turtle, Mr Mengal said, adding that two local people were killed in the second attack. One of the car’s passengers was a brother of provincial assembly member Ghulam Dastagir Badini.

The bodies were shifted to Quetta and their funeral prayers were held at Police Lines.

‘Plans to enter Europe’

The nine slain men hailed from different towns of central Punjab and were on their way to Iran from where they were planning to enter Europe via Turkiye.

Sources close to their families told Dawn that the victims had been booked by a Gujranwala-based agent for travel to Iran and Iraq.

They said the victims had valid visas for Iraq and Iran — a fact confirmed by the official sources.

The young men who left their towns on April 7 with visas stamped for Iran and Iraq had no plans to stay in these countries. Locals told Dawn that their actual destination was Europe, which they wanted to reach via Turkiye.

They claimed that the victim had procured valid visas for Iraq and Iran to avoid Iranian immigration authorities.

By pretending to be pilgrims going to holy sites in the two countries, they wanted to avoid the scrutiny of the Iranian border officials who often consider young Pakistanis as illegal immigrants trying to enter Europe via Turkiye, which borders Iran.

Out of the nine victims, six hail from the same village of Chak Fateh Shah in Mandi Bahauddin. Their names were Tanzeel Nasir, 20; Muhammad Qasim, 22; Sajid Imran, 23; Abu Bakar, 23; Muzamil Hussain, 22; and Mazhar Iqbal, 21.

One victim from Chora village of Wazirabad was 17-year-old Wasiq, while Rana Shahzeb from Gujranwala and Javed Shahzed of Afzalpur were also among the slain.

Wasiq’s friends told the media that he had left the village hoping for a bright future in Europe, but lost his life instead. Sources in the families of victims said that the agent had initially received a sum of Rs260,000 per person and more had to be paid after reaching the destination in Europe.

Zahid Imran Butt, however, was the lucky one who survived. He said he survived because he was sitting with “a local family from Balochistan”. He said his nine companions — including six friends from Mandi Bahauddin — were offloaded by two armed men who had initially asked all Punjabis to get off the bus. He confirmed that he along with his friends were going abroad hoping for employment

Gujrat, Mandi Bahauddin, Gujranwala, Wazirabad and Bhimbher in Azad Jammu and Kashmir are known as profitable areas for illegal human trafficking networks across the globe. Last year, scores of Pakistanis were killed on their way to Europe after their boat capsized.

Security plan

Vowing that the culprits would not go unpunished, Balochistan Chief Minister Sarfraz Bugti said the government would revive the security checkpoints on national highways to protect passengers.

Talking to the media after attending the funeral prayers of the nine victims, he said those involved in the horrific killing “are not Baloch but terrorists, and they should be called terrorists”.

The CM said the government would probe the Noshki incident and fix the responsibility.

CM Bugti said they would not negotiate on the killing of innocents and the government would undertake a comprehensive review of the security plan in the province.

“National highways are the most important routes, and we will protect them. We will formulate a security plan again in the province, establishing checkpoints with joint patrolling of the police, Levies, and the FC [Frontier Corps],” he said.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also condemned the attack and sought a report on the incident. He extended his condolences to the victims’ families, saying: “We stand with the bereaved families in this hour of grief.”

DAWN

 

[BouncerGuy]

Balochistan to deploy guards in buses

Pakistan Army personnel patrol stand guard outside a distribution center of polling materials in Peshawar on February 7, 2024, a day before Pakistan’s national elections.

Balochistan government has decided to deploy armed guards in passengers’ vehicles after the deadly Noshki attack.

On Monday, in response to growing concerns over the safety of passengers on national highways, an important meeting chaired by Commissioner Quetta Division, Hamza Shafqaat, convened to address the issue.

The meeting, attended by key officials including Additional Commissioner Quetta Division Suban Dashti, Deputy Commissioner Quetta, Saad Bin Asad, police officials, FC, transporters, and others, culminated in decisive actions aimed at fortifying the security apparatus for travelers.

The meeting decided to deploy armed guards in the passenger buses in the wake-up execution of nine passengers in Balochistan’s Noshki district the other day.

Additionally, the installation of CCTV cameras in all passenger coaches was mandated, bolstering surveillance capabilities to monitor and respond to any untoward incidents promptly.

Moreover, the National Highway Security Institutions will intensify patrolling efforts along designated routes, enhancing vigilance and preemptive measures against criminal activities.

Emphasizing the significance of collaborative efforts, Commissioner Hamza Shafaqat stressed the imperative of close coordination among pertinent agencies and transporters to safeguard passengers’ welfare.

Furthermore, stringent protocols were established to regulate travel operations, including daytime journeys and organized convoys during nighttime travels under heightened security supervision.

Notably, stringent measures were imposed to restrict unauthorized passengers, underscoring the prioritization of safety protocols.

The commissioner reiterated the commitment to continually assess and adapt security measures in response to evolving threats, underscoring the paramount importance of passenger safety on national highways.

SOURCE: EXPRESS TRIBUNE

 

[BouncerGuy]

Noshki attack victims’ families get compensation

The Mandi Bahauddin administration on Tuesday handed over cheques of financial compensation to the families of six victims of the Noshki firing incident in Balochistan.

The cheques of Rs100,000 each were handed over to the families of the victims by Mandi Deputy Commissioner Shahid Marth.

The compensation was given by the Mandi district from its own resources and heirs of three other victims of the firing belonging to Gujranwala and Wazirabad are yet to receive any such amount from their district administrations.

Talking to Dawn by telephone, Gujranwala Commissioner Naveed Haider Sheerazi said he had sent directions to the Gujranwala DC to issue cheques of financial assistance to the bereaved families and hopefully the DC would do the needful in a couple of days.

He added that the Balochistan government had also decided to pay some financial assistance to the heirs of the deceased youths as the Noshki deputy Commissioner had approached the DCs of Mandi Bahauddin, Gujranwala and Wazirabad, seeking details of the families. But the exact amount of financial assistance from the Balochistan government was yet to be known, Mr Sheerazi said.

Earlier, Qul for all the six deceased was held at their native village Chak Fateh Shah in Mandi Bahauddin on Tuesday. The Mandi Bahauddin DC along with the other officials attended prayers for the departed souls.

At least nine young men, from the age of 17 to 23 years, belonging to districts of Mandi, Gujranwala and Wazirabad, were killed by the firing of armed men. They were going to Taftan on the Iran-Pakistan border from Quetta. The attackers, who had set up a cordon on the N-40 Quetta-Noshki Highway, intercepted the bus they were travelling in and looted the belongings of passengers, including cash and mobile phones.

After checking the national identity cards of the passengers, the gunmen separated the nine passengers belonging to Punjab and took them away. Their bullet-riddled bodies were later dumped under a bridge in a hilly area of Noshki. The Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) had claimed responsibility for the killings.

The deceased youths had valid visas of Iran and Iraq; however, the sources in their close families said that these youth had left the houses with intention to go Europe by illegally crossing the borders into Turkey and then Europe.

The deceased hailed from the poor families and they had paid a sum of Rs260,000 each to a Gujranwala-based agent as an initial amount as rest of the amount had to be paid by them after their reaching the destination.

SOURCE: DAWN

 

[FearlessRoar]

Saudi Arabia inches closer to $1bn Reko Diq deal

Saudi sovereign wealth fund-backed Manara Minerals Investment Co., is likely to invest at least $1 billion in the project, Bloomberg reported on Thursday.

According to the report, the company could announce a preliminary agreement in the next few weeks.

The development came amid the visits of the high-level Saudi delegations to Pakistan in the recent day.

During a joint press conference with Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on April 16, Saudi Arabia’s Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Furhan Al Saud said that Pakistan had significant investment opportunities in a multitude of sectors.

Pakistani officials presented a broad presentation on several strategic areas, he said, however, he declined to disclose the targeted sectors.

“This gave us some significant confidence that we will be able to move forward on those projects that we decide to identify as worthy of investment,” Al Saud added.

Earlier, sources had said that Saudi Arabia will invest $1 billion in Reko Diq gold and copper project.

Sources at finance ministry said that the OGDCL and the PPL’s shares will be sold to Saudi Arabia. “There are preparations for Saudi investment next month,” sources said.

Reko Diq is considered one of the world’s largest undeveloped copper-gold mines. The project is being restarted after remaining on hold since 2011.

“Reko Diq is one of the bigger copper-gold undeveloped projects in the world,” said Mark Bristow, chief executive of Barrick, which aims to start mining in 2028 subject to an ongoing feasibility study. “It’s a very big deal. Any copper mine right now is a big deal.”

Last year in December, Pakistan and Barrick Gold Corporation signed $8 billion landmark agreement on Reko Diq project.

Saudi Arabia inches closer to $1bn Reko Diq deal

Saudi Arabia is inching closer to sign a deal for a minority stake in Barrick Gold's Reko Diq copper and gold project located in Chagai district in

arynews.tv

 

[hassan918]

No overnight solution to missing persons issue: Law Minister Tarar​

Law Minister Azam Nazeer Tarar said on Tuesday that the issue of missing persons could “not be solved overnight” but the government was committed to finding a solution by first achieving a consensus amongst all stakeholders.

Addressing a press conference in Islamabad alongside Information Minister Attaullah Tarar, the law minister said the issue — which he said dates back four decades — could “not be solved overnight in haste or due to someone’s anxiety or someone speaking on social media platforms or even court directives”.

The law minister emphasised that when discussing the issue of missing persons, it must be noted that Pakistan had performed the role of a frontline state in a war-ridden area for the past four decades, adding that the circumstances in neighbouring countries had further exacerbated internal challenges.

Azam noted that the people and army of Pakistan had paid an “unbelievable price” in the fight against terrorism with their sacrifices, adding that the same must be taken into consideration when finding a solution to the issue of missing persons.

The law minister noted that work towards solving the issuing of missing persons began under the PPP government in 2011 when the Commission of Inquiry on Enforced Disappearances was formed. Following that, the Supreme Court took notice of the matter and formed a commission.

Around 10,200 cases were sent to the commission, from which 7,900 cases have been solved while 23 per cent of the cases remain to be solved, Azam noted.

He said that during the tenure of the previous PML-N-led coalition government, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif had formed a committee alongside representatives of other coalition parties.

The committee met with various stakeholders during their visit to Quetta, the law minister said, recalling that he had asked for a report about missing persons.

Azam added that under the current tenure of Shehbaz, directives were issued to restart work on the inquiry of enforced disappearances, with the prime minister ordering that the committee be reconstituted. He noted that there will also be a “parliamentary presence” in the committee.

While acknowledging that a lot of work remained to be done with issues arising from both sides, Azam took a firm stance in noting that there was no lack of seriousness from the government about the issue.

He said the alleged involvement of government institutions in the issue could not be rejected outright, however, he added: “What needs to be seen is whether, till today, any solid or concrete evidence has come. From what I saw in the report, till I was on the committee, the answer is in the negative.”

The law minister further questioned whether inquiry reports, such as the one on missing persons, were always credible.

“Are people who have been registered as missing persons really missing?” he asked, recalling a case in Sindh where people registered as missing persons were actually serving jail time at a prison.

The law minister said the issue was not a simple one to solve and he would aim to resolve it through legal and political means by achieving a consensus amongst all stakeholders. The information minister also reiterated the same, as well as the government’s commitment to solve the issue.

However, he said it was the job of the executive to find a solution and any judicial committee would nullify the efforts of previous inquiry commissions and cabinet committees.

No overnight solution to missing persons issue: Law Minister Tarar

Claims govt wants to solve the matter but "solid, concrete" evidence needed about alleged involvement of state institutions.

www.dawn.com

 

[hassan918]

This is a serious issue and it must be solved soon.

 

[BouncerGuy]

CM names panel on missing persons

Balochistan Chief Minister Sarfraz Bugti has announced the formation of a parliamentary committee aimed at ensuring peace and resolving the missing persons issue in the province.

“We are committed to creating a comprehensive plan that ensures peace and order prevail in Balochistan, allowing our people to live without fear,” the chief minister said while addressing a news conference at the Chief Minister’s Secretariat in the provincial capital the other day.

The committee, inclusive of representation from opposition parties, would not only address issues pertaining to peace and missing persons but also deliberate on various challenges encountered by Balochistan. Its primary focus would be on formulating effective policies to tackle these matters.

The chief minister underscored the significance of dialogue in resolving the issues faced by the province. “Seeking peaceful solutions is imperative. Nevertheless, in the event of failed negotiations, we must explore alternative measures,” he asserted.

Addressing the pressing issue of missing persons, Bugti noted that the “dilemma” was of a “significant concern” for the nation.

Referring to the commission on enforced disappearances, the chief minister observed that the body resolved 80 per cent of the cases, while also acknowledging the challenges in identifying the missing individuals.

Bugti cautioned against blaming institutions regarding missing persons, saying government bears the responsibility to locate any missing citizen, regardless of circumstances.

The chief minister condemned the recent acts of violence in Balochistan including the killing of an individual in Kohlu district during by-polls on PB-9.

Denouncing the banned outfits which inflicted harm on innocent civilians, Bugti urged citizens to unite against terrorism.

He also highlighted external factors contributing to terrorism in the region. “Those who perpetrate acts of terrorism in the name of religion are receiving support from across the border in Afghanistan.”

The announcement of the parliamentary committee underscores a concerted effort by the government to address the longstanding issues in Balochistan, with a focus on fostering peace, security, and reconciliation in the troubled region.

A day earlier, the federal government said it had decided to reconstitute the cabinet committee on missing persons, with the inclusion of parliamentary representation.

Addressing a news conference alongside Information Minister Attaullah Tarar in Islamabad, Law Minister Azam Nazeer Tarar said resolving the issue of missing persons required time, stressing that it “could not be resolved overnight”, and added that the government was committed to achieving a consensus among all stakeholders.

SOURCE: EXPRESS TRIBUNE

 

[BouncerGuy]

Bugti vows to protect govt assets, improve urban infrastructure in Quetta

Balochistan Chief Minister Sarfraz Bugti on Friday committed to safeguarding government-owned assets and properties, including those under the Quetta Metropolitan Corporation (QMC) and other local bodies, valued at billions of rupees.

His remarks came amid ongoing issues involving unauthorised occupancy and non-payment of rent by tenants of these properties.

Talking to the media after visiting Quetta’s sole parking plaza, built by the QMC, Mr Bugti said that assets owned by the corporation and other institutions would not be wasted under any circumstances and urged all citizens, including lawyers, to support the government’s initiatives aimed at improving the city.

He highlighted the misuse of government properties, noting that many occupants have long defaulted on nominal rents.

Mr Bugti revealed that the parking plaza, despite being a seven-storey facility, lacks elevators and has unfinished sections, leading to the suspension of the contractor and the launch of an inquiry.

He also outlined plans to improve the city’s infrastructure, including the construction of a new hotel on the plaza’s rooftop through a public-private partnership.

He said the government would also establish another parking plaza in the old meat market’s available space, aiming to overcome roadside problems and provide safe parking places for commuters.

He said a lifter would be provided to traffic police on the same public-private partnership model as there is a single lifter with the police in Quetta.

The chief minister said that efforts would be made to improve the condition of Baldia plaza and directed to revise its rent agreements as the QMC is collecting rent on a monthly basis.

He said that Kandhari Bazar, Jinnah Road and encircling roads would be declared as walking streets.

Mr Bugti said that there is a lack of resources in Balochistan and the available resources are not being used properly, which does not benefit the public. “We will improve Quetta’s sewerage, parking and drainage systems,” he said.

The chief minister also pointed out the significant increase in revenue from the Circular Road parking plaza — from Rs6,000 to Rs1 million monthly — since the government took active steps to better manage the facility.

However, he criticised the corruption that has plagued local development projects, including a contractor who fled with an advance payment.

He stressed the need for community involvement in maintaining public cleanliness and highlighted plans to tackle corruption in road maintenance funding. Each district has been allocated Rs5 million for this purpose, he said.

Expressing his regret over the occupants of the government-leased properties, he said that the rent of Baldia cafe has not been paid for the last seven months, which must be submitted to the office concerned.

“We must introduce a new mechanism under our current resources, and we can generate revenue through the Mines and Minerals Department and Metropolitan Corporation,” he added.

SOURCE: DAWN

 

[PakLFC]

Watch and ponder over these programmes. My friend in Noshki, Baluchistan tells me it is a very accurate picture off what is happening there.

 

[BouncerGuy]

Transporters threaten highway blockade in Balochistan

The striking transporters, who had suspended operations on the Quetta-Taftan and other routes for the last one week, demanding the cancellation of new SOPs and the removal of newly established checkpoints following the tragic incident in Noshki, have threatened to block all national highways linking Balochistan with other provinces if their demands are not met within the next 48 hours.

The provincial government had taken serious notice of the Noshki incident, in which nine people from Punjab province were gunned down by unknown armed men after being kidnapped from a Taftan-bound passenger bus. These victims were en route to European countries via Iran and Iraq.

In response, the government decided to reassess its security plan to ensure safe travel on national highways.

As part of the revised security plan, the provincial government decided to reinstate security checkpoints on the Quetta-Taftan, Quetta-Karachi, coastal highway, and other routes.

Additionally, SOPs were developed for bus owners operating coaches and buses to ensure passenger safety.

Thess SOPs included arranging at least two security guards in every coach and bus and maintaining a record of passengers with their national identity cards.

According to the SOPs issued to the transporters running coaches and buses on the Quetta-Taftan section and coastal highway, they were instructed not to allow passengers who travel with passports and visas.

The checkpoints reinstated at various routes had been removed by previous governments following demands from coalition partners, political parties, and human rights organisations.

These groups argued that security forces, including Customs, Frontier Corps, Levies, and Coast Guards humiliated passengers under the pretext of security checks.

Representatives of the All Quetta-Taftan, Dalbandin, Chagai, Mashkel, Saindak and Rakhsan Bus Transport Union Alliance termed the new SOPs one-sided. They stated that the authorities concerned did not consult with the transporters’ union alliance, which they find unacceptable.

“The SOPs imposed by the government for transporters are very strict and not feasible for the bus owners,” said Lala Saeed Jan Lehri, a representative of the transporters’ union alliance, speaking at a press conference last week along with other transporters.

He emphasised that transporters had been operating buses and coaches on these routes for the last 40 years, with passengers travelling with passports and visas for various countries via Iran, Iraq, and Turkiye being their main source of income.

He also pointed out that buses were being checked at all checkpoints despite initial checks at the entry point in Taftan, causing difficulties for passenger transporters.

“Checks should be conducted at a checkpoint at the first entry point,” Mr Lehri added.

The striking transporters’ spokesman said that security on highways was the responsibility of the state and the government.

He warned that if the transporters’ demands were not met within the next 48 hours, they would block all national highways, suspending all traffic until their demands are accepted.

A spokesman for the Balochistan government said that steps had been taken by the authorities concerned to ensure the safety of passengers travelling on these routes in coaches and buses.

“We already provide security to pilgrims travelling for ziarats to Iran and Iraq. They travel in a security convoy,” he said.

SOURCE: DAWN

 

[FearlessRoar]

Twin blasts leave one dead, 20 injured in Balochistan’s Duki

As per details, the first explosion occurred when a truck hit a landmine, followed by a second blast as people gathered at the scene.

The police officials stated that both landmine blasts resulted in the killing of one citizen whereas 17 others sustained injuries. The injured are being transported to nearby hospitals for medical attention.

Last month, a policeman was martyred, while 20 individuals sustained injuries in a blast near a mosque situated on Kuchlak Road in Quetta.

According to rescue sources, an Eagle Squad official embraced martyrdom while 12 people including five security personnel were injured.

The injured were rushed to nearby medical facilities for medical treatment.

Meanwhile, law enforcement agencies cordoned off the area and launched an investigation into the incident to determine the nature and cause of the explosion.

The province has witnessed a surge in terrorism activities of late.

In February, at least 12 people were killed and 25 injured in a blast outside a political party’s office in Balochistan’s Pishin region.

Separately, at least 12 people were killed and several injured in a blast that occurred near the JUI-F election office in Balochistan’s Qila Saifullah.

Twin blasts leave one dead, 20 injured in Balochistan's Duki

DUKI: At least one dead, whereas 20 others injured twin landmine blasts occurred near Thaikedar Naddi in Duki district of Balochistan, ARY News reported.

arynews.tv

 

[FearlessRoar]

From proxies of RAW to the wadera system to negligence of the Pakistan government. I wonders how long the people of Balochistan have to suffer

 

[BouncerGuy]

Balochistan transporters end strike after talks with CM Bugti

Transporters from across Balochistan have called off their strike launched after the government implemented new SOPs for passengers following last month’s attack on a bus in Noshki.

The transporters have also ended their sit-in on the highways after successful negotiations with Chief Minister Sarfraz Bugti.

According to reports, Minister for Agriculture Mir Ali Madad Jattak, Home Minister Mir Ziaullah Langove, Quetta Division Commissioner Quetta Hamza Shafqaat and PPP MPA Mir Liaquat Lehri played an important role in breaking the ice between the government and protesting transporters.

They held “meaningful talks” with the leaders of the transport alliance the other day and assured that they would arrange their meeting with the chief minister.

On Saturday, a delegation of the transporters met with CM Bugti to discuss their concerns.

After hearing their grievances, the CM assured them that their legitimate demands would be accepted and the government would extend all help to the transporters and ensure their security.

However, he said the action against smuggling will continue and that security checkpoints on highways will remain intact.

He also said that even though protest was a constitutional right, blocking roads causing inconvenience for the public will be met with legal action.

The CM also directed the Home Department to ensure that passenger buses were not stopped for more than 15 to 20 minutes at the checkpoints.

It was also decided in the meeting that the transporters would take measures for the passengers’ safety.

“One security guard will travel in each bus, and strict adherence to the government-issued regulations will be ensured in the public interest,” the chief minister said.

SOURCE: DAWN

 

[hassan918]

Holding PSL in Balochistan on the cards: Naqvi​

QUETTA (APP) – Federal Home and Tribal Affairs Minister and Chairman PCB, Mohsin Naqvi, said that national and international sports events can be organised in Balochistan.

“Holding of the Pakistan Super League (PSL) matches in Quetta is being mulled over,” he said while addressing a press conference during his visit to Nawab Akbar Khan Bugti Cricket Stadium here on Tuesday.

Chief Minister Balochistan Mir Sarfraz Bugti, Home and Tribal Affairs Minister Mir Ziaullah Langove, former Caretaker Prime Minister Anwarul Haq Kakar, and PCB officials accompanied the Minister in the press conference.

Mohsin Naqvi also visited the Nawab Akbar Khan Bugti Stadium, where he was briefed by the PCB officials.

Addressing the news briefing, he said, “On the special invitation of the Chief Minister Balochistan, he has visited the Akbar Bugti Stadium.”

Installation of floodlights was the longstanding demand of the provincial government; he said announcing that the floodlights will be installed within three months.

“The installation of floodlights will help promote cricket and sports activities in the province, which is rich in talent. Youth of the province will be provided opportunities at the national level,” he added.

Earlier, Chief Minister Balochsitan Mir Sarfaraz Bugti extended his gratitude to the federal minister for giving attention to the sports in Balochistan.

Source: Dunya News

 

[BouncerGuy]

Balochistan CM Bugti vows no soft corner for terrorists after 7 labourers shot dead in Gwadar

Seven workers were killed and one was injured on Thursday when unknown gunmen opened fire on them when they were sleeping in their residential quarters in Surbandar, Gwadar, DawnNewsTV reported.

The incident occurred close to the Fish Harbour jetty. The report said the victims were from Punjab, and worked at a barber shop in Surbandar.

Balochistan Chief Minister Mir Sarfraz Bugti condemned the killing of the labourers in Gwadar, calling it “open terrorism”.

He expressed his condolences to their families and said that their families would not be abandoned, vowing to provide all possible support to the families.

“We will chase after terrorists and their facilitators,” Bugti said, adding that there is no soft corner or place for them in Pakistan.

“Whatever force is needed against the terrorists will be used,” the chief minister said. He stressed that the writ of the state would be enforced in any case.

“Every single drop of the blood of Pakistanis will be accounted for,” he said.

Balochistan home minister says terrorists will be dealt with strictly

Balochistan Home Minister Mir Zia Ullah Langau said the terrorists will be dealt with strictly. He noted that a report of the incident has been called for, and the incident is being reviewed from all aspects.

“The killing of innocent labourers is a cowardly act,” he said, adding that the terrorists will be brought to justice.

Meanwhile, the Balochistan government also condemned the killing and called it “open terrorism”, according to a spokesperson.

Administrative officers reached the site of the incident and were in touch with district administration, the spokesperson said. Families of the deceased are being contacted, the spokesperson added.

An investigation into the incident has been ordered, the spokesperson noted.

SOURCE: DAWN

 

[FearlessRoar]

Gunmen kill 7 barbers in Pakistan’s volatile Baluchistan province​

ttackers fatally shot seven barbers before dawn Thursday in a home in a volatile province in southwestern Pakistan, police and a government official said.

The killings occurred near the port city of Gwadar in Baluchistan province, police official Mohsin Ali said. All of the barbers were from Punjab province and lived and worked together.

Provincial Interior Minister Ziaullah Langau condemned the killings and said police were investigating who was behind the attack.

There was no immediate claim of responsibility. Separatists in Baluchistan have often killed workers and others from Punjab as part of a campaign to force them to leave the province, which for years has experienced a low-level insurgency by the Baluchistan Liberation Army and other groups demanding independence from the central government in Islamabad. Islamic militants also have a presence in the province.

The government says it has quelled the separatist insurgency, but violence in the province has persisted.

Police said they believe the attack on the barbers was not related to their jobs. Last month, the Baluchistan Liberation Army claimed responsibility for killing nine people from Punjab province who were abducted from a bus on a highway in Baluchistan, saying it had information that spies were on the bus.

Separatists have also targeted people from Punjab working on coal-mine projects in Baluchistan.

In January, gunmen killed six barbers in a former stronghold of the Pakistani Taliban in the country’s northwest near the Afghanistan border. Pakistani militants years ago banned the trimming of beards and haircuts in Western styles.

Gunmen kill 7 barbers in Pakistan's volatile Baluchistan province

Gunmen have killed seven barbers in a home in a volatile province in southwestern Pakistan. Police and a government official say the killings occurred early Thursday in Baluchistan province.

apnews.com

 

[FearlessRoar]

Gunmen kill 7 barbers in Pakistan’s volatile Baluchistan province​

ttackers fatally shot seven barbers before dawn Thursday in a home in a volatile province in southwestern Pakistan, police and a government official said.

The killings occurred near the port city of Gwadar in Baluchistan province, police official Mohsin Ali said. All of the barbers were from Punjab province and lived and worked together.

Provincial Interior Minister Ziaullah Langau condemned the killings and said police were investigating who was behind the attack.

There was no immediate claim of responsibility. Separatists in Baluchistan have often killed workers and others from Punjab as part of a campaign to force them to leave the province, which for years has experienced a low-level insurgency by the Baluchistan Liberation Army and other groups demanding independence from the central government in Islamabad. Islamic militants also have a presence in the province.

The government says it has quelled the separatist insurgency, but violence in the province has persisted.

Police said they believe the attack on the barbers was not related to their jobs. Last month, the Baluchistan Liberation Army claimed responsibility for killing nine people from Punjab province who were abducted from a bus on a highway in Baluchistan, saying it had information that spies were on the bus.

Separatists have also targeted people from Punjab working on coal-mine projects in Baluchistan.

In January, gunmen killed six barbers in a former stronghold of the Pakistani Taliban in the country’s northwest near the Afghanistan border. Pakistani militants years ago banned the trimming of beards and haircuts in Western styles.

Gunmen kill 7 barbers in Pakistan's volatile Baluchistan province

Gunmen have killed seven barbers in a home in a volatile province in southwestern Pakistan. Police and a government official say the killings occurred early Thursday in Baluchistan province.

apnews.com

In a country lacking the rule of law and facing an economic crisis, there are some people who expect that elections should be fair and transparent.

 

[The Bald Eagle]

Balochistan Home and Tribal Affairs Minister, Mir Ziaullah Langov has expressed his anger over the law and order situation in the province.

“The recent incidents of unrest and the loss of human lives are unbearable and action would be taken against those responsible,” he said during a high level meeting held here on Friday. He directed the Additional Chief Secretary Home Zahid Saleem to take concrete measures to improve law and order in the province.

“Protection of public life and property is government first priority,” he said and warned that if the law and order situation deteriorated in any area, the district administration, DIGs and DPOs should consider themselves suspended.

He further said officers found negligent from their responsibility will not be spared. Expressing grave concern over the Gwadar and Turbat incident, he called for revising security plan to avert such incident from happening in future. The elements involved in the Balochistan unrest cannot escape from the grips of the law, he vowed.

On the other hand, Deputy Commissioner (DC) Lasbela, Umira Baloch on Friday said that measures would be taken to address public issues of Lasbela with the aim to provide maximum facilities to people in the area. She expressed these views while talking to Armabel Press Club (APC) members after taking charge as Deputy Commissioner Lasbela.

She said that the media should identify the public problems in a positive way, God willing, she would spare no effort to solve the unresolved problems because media role was important for resolving issues of public. She said that a meeting would be held soon with the electricity authorities to eliminate prolong load shedding of electricity and diesel smuggling would not be allowed in local passenger buses.

Source: The Express Tribune

 

[The Bald Eagle]

IHC judge calls for ‘death penalty’ for elements behind forced disappearance​

Islamabad High Court (IHC) judge Justice Mohsin Akhtar Kayani on Thursday called for the introduction of a law that would impose the death penalty on those responsible for enforced disappearances, Express News reported.

Justice Kayani made the remarks during a hearing of a petition filed by poet Ahmed Farhad Shah's wife, who went missing two days ago. Lawyers Iman Mazari and Hadi Ali Chatha represented the petitioner. SSP Operations Jameel Zafar was also present on the occasion.

During the hearing, the government lawyer stated that a special investigation team has been formed and efforts are ongoing for Shah’s recovery.

SSP Zafar said that he met Shah’s wife, saying that the poet was apparently taken from outside his home, but the vehicle's number plates were unreadable due to darkness.

He said that efforts to trace the vehicles are ongoing with the Federal Investigation Authority (FIA), adding that letters have been sent to all intelligence agencies in this regard.

The court expressed frustration over the lack of progress in the case and asked why those responsible for enforced disappearances are not brought to book.

Justice Kayani asked the SSP if the agencies responded to their letters. The SSP replied that no positive responses have been received. He expressed trust in the ability of police but lamented that investigations do not progress beyond a certain point.

The government lawyer said that those who return after being taken often claim they “went to Kaghan”, a popular tourist destination in Pakistan.

Justice Kayani remarked that “unidentified persons” can make people memorise their lessons within 24 hours.

Source: The Express Tribune

 

[BouncerGuy]

How many protests are you going to stop. People are now looking to snatch what is rightfully theirs.

----------------------

Police, officials lock Quetta Press Club to stop Baloch Yakjehti Committee seminar

The police and local administration locked the gates of Quetta Press Club on Saturday to stop the Baloch Yakjehti Committee (BYC) members from holding a seminar.

The BYC members laid siege to the press club for hours and entered the building after breaking the locks. They held their seminar in Hall 1 of the press club, which was booked for the seminar.

The press club administration claimed that an assistant commissioner had asked the staff not to allow the seminar and locked the hall and the main gate.

As BYC held the seminar, presided over by BYC leader Dr Mahrang Baloch, a heavy contingent of police headed by SSP Operation and Quetta DIG cordoned off the press club building and the adjacent Quetta Metropolitan Corporation (QMC) office.

The QMC security staff was also asked not to allow any vehicle to park inside the premises.

The police cordon continued till late afternoon, when BYC activists concluded the seminar. However, no arrests were made when BYC leaders left the press club building.

Earlier, Quetta Press Club President Abdul Khaliq Rind, General Secretary Banaras Khan, Balochistan Union of Journalists President Khalil Ahmed and other media persons reached the press club and held a meeting to discuss the action of police and local administration.

Condemnation

Local and national journalists’ unions condemned the action and called it an attack on free media.

In a statement, Pakistan Federal Union of Journalists (PFUJ) President Afzal Butt and Secretary General Arshad Ansari said press clubs were “neutral areas” “for raising voices for those who are victims of state highhandedness”.

The PFUJ leaders called for immediate restoration of activities at the press clubs, saying that Article 19 of the Constitution protects the right of free speech and expression of every citizen.

“The country is facing the worst kind of media gagging and denial of freedom of expression, and Balochistan is specifically being targeted,” the PFUJ leader said.

The Balochistan Union of Journalists condemned the actions and sought an investigation into what they called “an attack on the freedom of press” and an open violation of Article 19.

SOURCE: DAWN

 

[hassan918]

IHC judge calls for ‘death penalty’ for elements behind forced disappearance​

Islamabad High Court (IHC) judge Justice Mohsin Akhtar Kayani on Thursday called for the introduction of a law that would impose the death penalty on those responsible for enforced disappearances, Express News reported.

Justice Kayani made the remarks during a hearing of a petition filed by poet Ahmed Farhad Shah's wife, who went missing two days ago. Lawyers Iman Mazari and Hadi Ali Chatha represented the petitioner. SSP Operations Jameel Zafar was also present on the occasion.

During the hearing, the government lawyer stated that a special investigation team has been formed and efforts are ongoing for Shah’s recovery.

SSP Zafar said that he met Shah’s wife, saying that the poet was apparently taken from outside his home, but the vehicle's number plates were unreadable due to darkness.

He said that efforts to trace the vehicles are ongoing with the Federal Investigation Authority (FIA), adding that letters have been sent to all intelligence agencies in this regard.

The court expressed frustration over the lack of progress in the case and asked why those responsible for enforced disappearances are not brought to book.

Justice Kayani asked the SSP if the agencies responded to their letters. The SSP replied that no positive responses have been received. He expressed trust in the ability of police but lamented that investigations do not progress beyond a certain point.

The government lawyer said that those who return after being taken often claim they “went to Kaghan”, a popular tourist destination in Pakistan.

Justice Kayani remarked that “unidentified persons” can make people memorise their lessons within 24 hours.

Source: The Express Tribune

IHC summons interior, defence secretaries in poet missing case​

ISLAMABAD (Dunya News) – The Islamabad High Court (IHC) on Monday summoned interior and defence secretaries in a case related to disappearance of poet Ahmed Farhad.

Justice Mohsin Akhtar Kayani heard the case while Iman Mazari represented the Farhad’s wife, who is the petitioner in the case. Representatives of Ministry of Defence and other authorities also attended the hearing.

During the hearing, Mazari informed court that her client received an anonymous WhatsApp call wherein she was told that her husband would return home in a week if she withdraws the petition. “It is clearly forced disappearance as ransom was demanded if he is kidnapped”.

Justice Kayani remarked that the abducted person must be recovered at any cost. He also warned of issuing arrest warrants for secretary defence if he fails to appear before court.

Later, the high court took a short break. A representative of the defence ministry appeared before Justice Kayani after the break and informed that Farhad was not in custody of the Inter Services Intelligence (ISI). He added that the spy agency has rejected the allegations.

At which, the IHC judge remarked that the institutions are expressing their failure, adding: “Now the matter has gone beyond their jurisdictions.”

He also sought a written report from the defence secretary and ordered him and secretary interior to appear in court.

Justice Kayani said this was not a simple and easy matter, adding that an example has to be set in this case.

He said messages are being sent to the family but on the other hand they are denying that Farhad's custody.

Later, the high court adjourned the case till May 21.

Source: Dunya News

 

[BouncerGuy]

Journalists boycott assembly proceeding over locking of Quetta Press Club

Journalists covering the assembly session on Monday boycotted the proceedings to protest against the lockdown of Quetta Press Club (QPC) and the entry of police into the premises on Saturday to stop a seminar of the Baloch Yakjahti Committee (BYC).

The decision to boycott was made in a joint meeting of the executive committees of QPC and the Balochistan Union of Journalists (BUJ).

A large number of journalists, led by BUJ president Khalil Ahmed and QPC president Abdul Khaliq Rind, walked out of the press gallery soon after the assembly session started and gathered in front of the hall.

They were carrying placards and banners inscribed with their demands and chanted slogans against the police and local administration for locking down the press club.

The BUJ and QPC leaders, while speaking on the occasion, strongly condemned the local administration’s action at the QPC and termed it a violation of the freedom of expression and press freedom, and a gross violation of Article 19.

Meanwhile, a delegation of assembly members, including Finance Minister Mir Shoaib Nosherwani, Mir Zahoor Ahmed Buledi, Rehmat Baloch and Mir Zabit Reki, met the protesting journalists and expressed solidarity with them, supporting their demands.

Later, a delegation from QPC and BUJ met Chief Minister Sarfarz Bugti and presented him with the demands. The CM assured the delegation that the incident would be investigated.

SOURCE: DAWN

 

[The Bald Eagle]

Nothing against agencies, only against them operating extrajudicially: IHC

The Islamabad High Court (IHC) clarified on Tuesday that there was nothing against the intelligence agencies, only against them operating extrajudicially, adding that they should only play a supporting role for the investigative arm of law enforcement.

Justice Mohsin Akhtar Kiyani, hearing the missing Baloch students case, stated that it would be beneficial if the intelligence agencies clarified their 'operational methods' and said a need exists to enhance the effectiveness of the police, counter-terrorism department (CTD), and the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA).

"These are the three main investigative bodies; other agencies can assist them," said Justice Kiyani.

As the hearing commenced today, the court inquired about the number of terrorism cases lodged against Baloch students during the last ten years and asked how many were arrested, forcefully disappeared or harassed.

The attorney general for Pakistan (AGP) presented the missing persons committee report and maintained that "intelligence agencies cannot harass any individual".

"No court, judge, lawyer, journalist, or parliamentarian is calling for stopping the agencies from working according to the law," Justice Kayani said while maintaining that they only advocate against "unlawful actions".

The state counsel stated that the issue would remain unresolved unless addressed "politically". Acknowledging the same, Justice Kiyani stressed the need for dialogue to resolve the matter.

The court then asked the counsel regarding claims that individuals are kept in custody by the agencies and inquired whether the sustenance expenses for these individuals are covered using government funds.

Source: The Express Tribune

 

[hassan918]

Oxford Pakistan Programme announces scholarships for Balochistan students​

In a positive development for students hailing from Balochistan, the Oxford Pakistan Programme (OPP) has announced scholarships for pupils of the province.

Speaking at Oxford University's annual May Dinner & Fundraiser at the Lady Margaret Hall on Friday, Balochistan Chief Minister Sarfraz Bugti announced the inauguration of a new graduate scholarship aimed at empowering a deserving Balochistan student to pursue STEM subjects at the varsity.

The CM further termed the initiative as a reflection of its commitment to the educational transformation and empowerment of Balochistan's youth which is as a pivotal step toward educational equality and the empowerment of the next generation of leaders from the province.

It is to be noted that the OPP is the first academic initiative of its kind, aimed at increasing the representation of Pakistani students and scholars at a leading global university and has become the single largest Pakistan-focused academic platform outside Pakistan.

Since its establishment three years ago, it has become the single largest Pakistan-focused academic platform outside Pakistan.

The event was attended by by around 150 distinguished guests, including youngest nobel laureate Malala Yousafzai, Chief Minister of Balochistan Sarfaraz Bugti, Aamir Ibrahim, Mohammed Khaishgi, Pro-Vice-Chancellor at the University of Cambridge Farouq Sheikh OBE, Professor Kamal Munir, Farmida Bi CBE, Senator Anwaar ul Haq Kakar, and Sarwar Khawaja, alongside senior academics and administrators from various universities.

Prior to the annual dinner, an annual strategic advisory board meeting also took place which provisioned discussion on the future directions of the OPP, covering scholarship availability, accessibility measures and post-study employment opportunities for scholars.

The session, attended by prominent figures from the Pakistani and British Pakistani academic and business communities along with the core OPP and LMH development teams, mulled over strategies for the OPP and explored potential collaborations among the attendees.

Notably on the announcement of the launch of an endowment model for OPP, Khawaja announced his generous donation of £100,000 to initiate this endowment fund, which was met with enthusiastic approval.

It may be noted that this is the same event at which the education activist, Malala announced scholarships for the Palestinian students.

Source: GEO

 

[BouncerGuy]

Methane gas kills 11 inside Balochistan coal mine

At least 11 people died after inhaling methane gas inside a coal mine in the Sanjdi area, some 50km from Quetta, on Monday.

The victims include nine coal miners, a coal company manager and a contractor.

“The coal miners were working around 1,500 feet deep in the mine when the gas eruption started and quickly spread to the place. All the coal miners fell unconscious,” Abdul Ghani Shahwani, Chief Inspector of Mines in Balochistan, told Dawn.

He said these workers along with a contractor and manager went inside the mine at around 5pm and after one and a half hours it was noted that there was no signal coming from inside the mine.

Rescue teams from the Mines Department rushed to the site. When rescuers reached inside the mine after taking safety measures and ventilating the gas nobody was found alive.

“All the nine miners and two others were found dead deep inside the mine,” the official said, adding that the bodies were shifted to a nearby health facility where doctors confirmed their death.

The chief inspector said the mine belonged to the United Coal mining company and that all the miners who lost their lives came from Swat. The coal mine has been sealed and an inquiry ordered into the incident.

Gunned down

Two coal miners were killed in a gun attack in Duki district on Sunday night, officials said.

Karimullah and Abdul Naeem, who belonged to the Suleman Khel tribe, were killed while Fazal Rahman was injured in the attack, Additional SHO Akhtar Jan Hasni said on Monday, adding that the attackers also used hand grenades.

The private security guards, who were deployed in the area, returned fire and after an exchange of fire the attackers disappeared into in the nearby mountains.

Later, enraged people carrying the bodies held a protest rally and a sit-in in front of the DC office.

DAWN

 

[BouncerGuy]

20 more injured, 45 held as Chaman remains restive

The situation in border town of Chaman remained volatile as violent protests and clashes between protesters and law enforcement agencies continued for a third consecutive day on Friday, resulting in injuries to 20 people, including eight security personnel.

Security forces arrested 45 individuals for allegedly damaging public and private properties and attacking security officials during protest rallies and demonstrations.

The passenger train service between Quetta and Chaman has been suspended due to violence and attacks on government buildings. “No train left for the border town of Chaman on Friday from Quetta due to security reasons,” a senior official of Pakistan Railways confirmed.

Officials said that contrary to the assurances by tribal elders that the protesters would confine their demonstrations to a designated area, where they had been staging a sit-in for months to press for their demands, the protesters unexpectedly swarmed onto various roads, armed with sticks and stones, and began hurling stones at shops that had been opened by shopkeepers.

The sit-in participants have been protesting against the government’s decision to only allow those with valid passports and visas to go beyond the Chaman border crossing. Before, Pakistanis and Afghans would cross the border upon showing their respective identity cards.

Business centres and numerous government offices remained closed on Friday due to the violent protests, with banks also being closed for several days. “National Bank has even relocated its staff to Qila Abdullah to ensure continued operation of its Chaman branch,” a bank official told Dawn. Some of the shops opened in the morning were forcibly shut down by the angry protesters. The mob also staged demonstrations in front of the FC headquarters in Chaman, pelting the building with stones.

Security forces, including Levies, police, and Frontier Corps, resorted to tear gas shelling to disperse the protesters who were attacking security personnel with sticks. “At least 20 people, including eight security personnel, were injured in the clashes, bringing the total number of the injured to 60 over the past two to three days,” a senior police officer deployed in Chaman told Dawn over phone.

“Security forces have arrested 45 people responsible for attacking police and Levies during demonstrations,” a law department official confirmed to Dawn.

However, the Quetta-Chaman highway remains open to traffic, as the local administration has issued a stern warning that no one will be allowed to block the critical highway that connects Pakistan with Afghanistan via Chaman.

“We are eager to resolve the issue through constructive negotiations with stakeholders to find a solution that restores employment for those who lost their jobs due to the prolonged closure of the Pak-Afghan border,” a senior official in Chaman told Dawn. “We held talks with tribal elders and other concerned individuals last night, who promised to normalise the situation in the border town, but unfortunately, that commitment was not honored.”

However, the leaders of the striking people declared that their protest will persist until the release of their arrested leaders and all individuals taken into custody over the past three days.

State’s authority

Meanwhile, a high-level meeting, presided over by Chief Minister Mir Safraz Bugti on Friday, reviewed the situation in Chaman, and resolved not to allow anyone to challenge the state’s authority or engage in violent acts under the pretext of protest in Balochistan.

Officials briefed the meeting on the latest developments in Chaman and the incidents that occurred over the past three days. In light of the situation, it was decided that the state’s authority must be upheld in all cases to ensure peace and order are maintained at Balochistan’s borders.

CM Bugti said local traders in Chaman are willing to negotiate and resolve the issues faced by professionals through dialogue, and the government is also willing to engage in talks to find a solution. However, he emphasised that attacks on security forces and damage to public and private properties are unacceptable.

On the other hand, four political parties — Awami National Party, Pashtoonkhwa National Awami Party, Pishin Tahaffuz Movement and National Democratic Party — jointly staged a demonstration in front of the Quetta Press Club in support of Chaman protesters and their demands.

A large number of workers and supporters of these parties carried party flags and banners inscribed with their demands. Speaking on the occasion, leaders of the three parties condemned the arrest of protesters and demanded that the government accept all demands of the Chaman traders and protesters.

Parliamentary committee

Separately, speaking in the National Assembly, PTI leader Asad Qaisar said people were holding protests in Chaman and the erstwhile Fata over loadshedding and state action. He urged the lower house of parliament to form a parliamentary committee on the situation. “I appealed to the decision-makers for mercy for the motherland. Stop showering bullets on the people of Chaman, rather they must be brought on the table for dialogue,” he said.

On Friday, the Foreign Office also said that movement across the Pakistan-Afghanistan border should be regulated by visas. During a media briefing in Islamabad, FO spokesperson Mumtaz Zahra Baloch said that individuals wishing to enter Pakistan from Afghanistan must possess a visa and an Afghan passport. She emphasised that border movement between Pakistan and Afghanistan should be conducted under visa regulations.

SOURCE: DAWN

 

[The Bald Eagle]

Islamabad High Court’s (IHC’s) Justice Mohsin Akhtar Kayani has ordered that Kashmiri poet Ahmed Farhad be declared an “enforced disappearance/missing person” till he reaches his home safely, it emerged on Monday

A written order of Friday’s hearing, a copy of which is available with Dawn.com, stated: “Syed Farhad Ali Shah is declared an enforced disappearance/missing person until he reaches his home safely.”

Farhad had been allegedly abducted from his home on May 15, with the Human Rights Commission of Pakistan calling for his immediate release.

A petition had been filed by Farhad’s wife in the IHC the same day, requesting that he be found and produced before the court and to identify, investigate and prosecute those responsible for his disappearance.

Justice Kayani had also framed 12 questions, mostly related to the functions and obligations of spy agencies — the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI), Military Intelligence (MI) and the Intelligence Bureau (IB).

After multiple IHC orders, Farhad resurfaced on May 29, when the government informed the court that the poet was in the custody of the Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) police under the case registered the same day of obstructing public servant’s duties.

On June 1, Farhad was brought to a health facility in Muzaffarabad for his medical check-up hours after his counsel had requested the same before an anti-terrorism court (ATC).

Last week, an AJK ATC rejected the poet’s bail plea, holding that the legal points advanced by his counsel did not apply to the case in hand.

On June 7, the IHC had disposed of the petition seeking Farhad’s recovery, with the remarks that apparently it was causing hardship to the incarcerated poet.

In the written order issued today for the same hearing, Justice Kayani observed that when Farhad would reach his home, the investigation officer of Islamabad’s Lohi Bher police station was bound to record his statement “under Section 164 of the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC) before a judicial magistrate and proceed with the investigation as a result”.

On the matter of combining all such cases of enforced disappearance sub judice before the IHC and forming a larger bench to hear them, Justice Kayani ordered that the cases be presented before IHC Chief Justice Aamer Farooq “so he, using his administrative powers, may form a larger bench so that this matter of public interest can be dealt with in a better way”.

Further, the judge directed the IHC registrar to invite the director generals of the ISI, MI and the IB as well as the Counter Terrorism Department (CTD) incharge at the next meeting of the Criminal Justice Committee so they could present their requests and recommendations.

The meeting’s aim would also be for all institutions — including the Islamabad police, inspector general and chief commissioner as well as the interior and law ministries — to protect citizens’ rights and deal with a “heinous crime such as enforced disappearance while remaining within the legal jurisdiction”, the order added.

It further stated: “All such cases that pertain to national security affairs be fixed for in-camera hearing and if it is an important matter, then a larger bench may hear them after being briefed by heads of top investigative institutions. And directives shall be issued to not report such cases in media.”

The IHC appreciated all court assistants (amicus curiae) who assisted it on the matter of enforced disappearances during the case.

Source: Dawn News

 

[Cricket Warrior]

Balochistan Govt to lauch solar salt project in Gwadar

The Balochistan government has planned a Solar Salt project with the help of the Balochistan Public Private Partnership Authority (BPPPA) in District Gwadar.

The Pakistan Economic Survey 2023-24 was unveiled earlier in the day, stating that Reconnaissance Licenses for Solar Salt have been granted to the Balochistan government-owned Balochistan Mineral Resources Limited (BMRL).

The survey added that negotiations with international investors on areas granted to BMEC and BMRL.

It added that considering the Reko Diq settlement and reinitiating of the project, focus has been given to Large-scale Mining. Several Large-Scale Exploration Licenses (ELs) for Copper, Gold, and associated minerals have been granted to Private and Public Sector Companies.

Among them, 5 ELs have been granted to the Government of Balochistan-owned companies Balochistan Mineral Resources Limited (BMRL) and 4 ELs to Balochistan Mineral Exploration Company BMEC. These companies negotiate with international investors to explore and develop these granted areas.

Balochistan Govt to lauch solar salt project in Gwadar

QUETTA: The Balochistan government has planned a Solar Salt project with the help of the Balochistan Public Private Partnership Authority (BPPPA) in

arynews.tv

 

[The Bald Eagle]

The Azad Jammu and Kashmir High Court on Friday granted bail to poet and journalist Ahmed Farhad Shah and ordered his release if he was not wanted in any other case

Shah, who had gone missing from his Islamabad residence on May 15, had surprisingly “re-surfaced” in Gujjar Kohala, a village near the AJK border with Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, on May 29 when the Islamabad High Court (IHC) was hearing a petition seeking his recovery.

The court was informed by Attorney General of Pakistan Mansoor Usman Awan that Shah had been arrested under Section 186 of the Azad Penal Code (APC) — the AJK version of Pakistan Penal Code — and was kept at the Dhirkot police station of Bagh district.

Later, the same afternoon, Shah was handed over to Saddar police station in Muzaffarabad, where he was booked under nine sections of APC and one each section of Telegraph Act and Anti-Terrorism Act according to a statement given to his family by Dhirkot police.

Last week, an AJK anti-terrorism court (ATC) had agreed with the contentions of the prosecution and rejected Shah’s bail plea, holding that the legal points advanced by his counsel did not apply to the case in hand.

Shah had subsequently filed a bail petition in the AJK High Court.

AJK High Court Chief Justice Sadaqat Hussain Raja presided over a hearing on the bail petition today. Granting the request, he ordered Shah to be released after furnishing a bail bond at Rs200,000 and a personal bond in the like amount.

The written order, a copy of which is available with Dawn.com, said that it remained to be determined whether Shah had committed any of the charges or allegations against him.

“These allegations are all contingent upon the presentation of crime,” the order said.

It said that prima facie, Shah was entitled to the concession of bail in the case.

“It is essential to emphasise that law could not be stretched in favour either of the defence or the prosecution for purpose of bail and it is settled principle of law that bail could not be withheld as punishment and in case where the court would feel that it was a case of further inquiry.”

The high court subsequently set aside the ATC’s June 4 order.

Source: Dawn News

 

[BouncerGuy]

Balochistan Assembly approves Rs900B budget for FY 2024-25

The Balochistan Assembly approved a Rs900 billion budget for the fiscal year 2024-25, including a Rs321 billion allocation for the Public Sector Development Programme (PSDP).

Despite the presence of opposition members, no cut motions were brought forward during the session, resulting in the approval of all 93 grant demands presented by Finance Minister Mir Shoaib Nosherwani.

Earlier this month, Nosherwani underscored the government’s commitment to equal distribution of resources among all areas of Balochistan to ensure comprehensive growth and development, dismissing claims of misallocated funds.

“This budget marks a significant step towards prioritizing education, health, and climate change initiatives,” he stated.

In today's approval of these demands, Rs321 billion has been earmarked for development projects, underscoring the government's commitment to infrastructure and growth initiatives.

On the non-development side, allocations include Rs92.6 billion for secondary education and Rs84.80 billion for pensions of retired employees.

Other notable allocations are Rs51.33 billion for police and Balochistan Constabulary, Rs37.81 billion for local bodies and urban development, Rs67.26 billion for healthcare, and Rs22.81 billion for higher education institutions.

Chief Minister Mir Sarfraz Bugti, addressing the assembly after the budget's passage, reiterated the government's stance on dialogue for resolving conflicts and ensuring peace and security in Balochistan.

The CM emphasized that while the government is open to talks, it will not tolerate the imposition of ideologies through armed means.

“The state and government are ready to talk to everyone, but will not allow any armed group impose its ideology at gunpoint.” stated the CM.

EXPRESS TRIBUNE

 

[FearlessRoar]

Jam Kamal questions allocation of PSDP funds in Balochistan

He said that billions of rupees funds allocation for unelected individuals and selected senators has been inappropriate. “A large chunk of the funds allocated for those who are not elected representatives,” minister said.

He said instead of MNAs and MPAs, who have been elected by public vote, funds being endowed to those who heve been defeated in elections and who are not accountable before people.

Jam Kamal called the chief minister to take notice of the matter. “It is not only an insult of elected representatives but also opening of a new door for corruption,” he added.

Jam Kamal questions allocation of PSDP funds in Balochistan

Commerce Minister Jam Kamal on Saturday called the allocated amount for Public Sector Development Programme (PSDP) in Balochistan as unjust and questioned

arynews.tv

 

[Cricket Warrior]

Miscreants blow up gas pipeline in Balochistan’s Mach

Miscreants have blown up a 24-inch diameter Sui gas pipeline in Mach, resulting in a disruption of gas supply to various areas, including Quetta, ARY News reported on Sunday.

According to sources from the Sui Southern Gas Company, the damage caused by the explosion has led to a complete suspension of gas supply.

The Sui Southern Gas Company has announced that repair work on the damaged pipeline will commence in the morning.



ARY News

 

[BouncerGuy]

Intense downpour continues to disrupt life in Balochistan

Balochistan’s road link to other provinces remained disrupted on Monday as heavy rainfall continued in several districts.

Officials said that Zhob, Sherani, Dera Bugti, Nasirabad, Bolan, Harnai, Khuzdar, Loralai, Barkhan and Musakhail districts received heavy rains as part of the pre-monsoon weather system.

The traffic at Quetta-Zhob-D.I. Khan N-50 Highway has been partially restored following its closure on Sunday. Heavy boulders fell on the road due to a landslide between Dhanasar and Mughal Kot areas of Balochistan’s Sherani district.

However, officials have said that after more rainfall at the Koh-i-Suleman mountain range, further landsliding is expected.

The National Highway Authority and local officials said the work to clear the highway will continue between Dhanasar and Mughal Kot to fully open the highway for traffic.

The Provincial Disaster Management Authority has also issued a fresh forecast of heavy rainfall in at least 15 districts of northern and central Balochistan.

The deputy commissioners of all districts have been advised to take immediate steps to avoid damages of roads, human settlements and lives.

“More landslides are expected in different mountainous areas of Balochistan as heavy rains continue in several areas of the province,” the PDMA officials warned and directed the departments concerned to deploy heavy machinery to clear the roads in case of landslides.

DAWN

 

[Cricket Warrior]

28,000 tube wells in Balochistan will be solarised: PM Shehbaz

A total of 28,000 agricultural tube wells in Balochistan would be shifted to solar system within three months under an agreement reached between the federal and provincial governments, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said on Monday.

“The federal government will provide 70 per cent funds while 30 per cent will be contributed by the provincial government for Rs55 billion solarisation project,” he told reporters after the agreement signing ceremony in Quetta.

The incumbent government has been calling for finding alternative sources of energy to lessen the country’s dependence on fuel, which is the major component in the country’s import bill.

The prime minister met with the provincial cabinet in which the federal ministers and Balochistan Governor Jafar Khan Mandokhel and Chief Minister Sarfraz Ahmed Bugti were present.

Earlier, the prime minister saw an agreement signing ceremony between the federal and the provincial governments for shifting of electricity-run tube wells to the solar powered mechanisms.

The prime minister tasked the chief minister to complete the solarisation project within three months.

28,000 tube wells in Balochistan will be solarised: PM Shehbaz

Asks chief minister to complete solarisation project within three months

english.aaj.tv

 

[Cricket Warrior]

Bugti’s nephew among five killed in tribal groups clash in Karachi

Former Balochistan governor Akbar Bugti’s nephew, Fahad, among five was killed when two rival Bugti tribal groups clashed in Karachi DHA VI Nishat Commercial area on Thursday night, police said.

The two groups opened fire on each other over a dispute. The deceased have been identified as Fahad Bugti, Nasibullah Bugti, Mir Mehsam Bugti, Mir Eesa Bugti, and Mir Ali Bugti, all belonging to the Bugti tribe. The injured, Mir Haider Bugti and Qaim Ali Bugti, were shifted to the Jinnah Hospital for medical treatment.

“It appears that there was a longstanding enmity between the two groups,” said Additional Inspector General of Police Javed Alam Odho.

Upon receiving the information, a large contingent of police personnel rushed to the scene and cordoned off the area. The investigators have started collecting initial evidence to investigate the incident further.

“The bodies of all the deceased have been transferred to the Jinnah Hospital,” stated DIG South Asad Raza.


AAJ News

 

[Bhaijaan]

Hang in there Baloch brothers. Never let go of the Umeed. Help will reach you soon.

 

[BouncerGuy]

Bugti’s nephew among five killed in tribal groups clash in Karachi

Former Balochistan governor Akbar Bugti’s nephew, Fahad, among five was killed when two rival Bugti tribal groups clashed in Karachi DHA VI Nishat Commercial area on Thursday night, police said.

The two groups opened fire on each other over a dispute. The deceased have been identified as Fahad Bugti, Nasibullah Bugti, Mir Mehsam Bugti, Mir Eesa Bugti, and Mir Ali Bugti, all belonging to the Bugti tribe. The injured, Mir Haider Bugti and Qaim Ali Bugti, were shifted to the Jinnah Hospital for medical treatment.

“It appears that there was a longstanding enmity between the two groups,” said Additional Inspector General of Police Javed Alam Odho.

Upon receiving the information, a large contingent of police personnel rushed to the scene and cordoned off the area. The investigators have started collecting initial evidence to investigate the incident further.

“The bodies of all the deceased have been transferred to the Jinnah Hospital,” stated DIG South Asad Raza.


AAJ News

17 people from Bugti clan arrested after bloody clash in Karachi’s DHA

Karachi police on Friday said they have so far arrested 17 suspects after five people were killed and two others were critically injured in a shootout between members of the Bugti clan last night.

Two groups, led by Fahad Ahmed Nawaz Bugti and Ali Haider Bugti, had engaged in a gunfight on late Thursday night near the former’s residence in Defence Housing Authority’s (DHA) Khayaban-i-Nishat.

The clash resulted in the killing of 50-year-old Fahad — a nephew of slain Baloch chieftain Nawab Akbar Khan Bugti — while Ali Haider, also a maternal nephew of the Bugti chieftain, was injured.

Stating that four others were also killed, Deputy Inspector-General (DIG) South, Asad Raza, told Dawn.com that two people were injured, not three as previously reported.

“Earlier today, police took action in DHA, detaining 17 individuals belonging to the Bugti clan, including two gunmen, DIG Raza said.

He added that the suspects belonged to both supposed rival gangs within the Bugti family.

“Eight individuals were arrested soon after the incident while the remaining suspects were detained early Friday morning,” Raza explained.

He further said that two injured Bugti family members had been shifted to the Aga Khan University Hospital (AKUH) for treatment, where police guards have been deployed due to investigators treating the wounded as suspects in the clash.

Sharing further details of the incident, Raza said that at about 11:25pm on Thursday, an exchange of fire took place between the two tribal groups at DHA’s Nishat Commercial Lane 10 within the limits of the Darakhshan police station.

As a result, Fahad and 35-year-old Naseebullah Bugti died. From the Ali Haider group, three persons — Mir Ali Haider Bugti’s sons Meer Mohsin Bugti and Mir Essa Bugti as well as their gunman Ali lost their lives.

Meanwhile, Ali Haider along with his group mate Qaim Ali Qadir sustained injuries. Both were directly taken to the AKUH for treatment, police surgeon Dr Summaiya Syed said.

According to the police surgeon, the post-mortem examination of two bodies was conducted at the Jinnah Postgraduate Medical Centre, while the autopsy of three other bodies was carried out at the Civil Hospital Karachi.

They “all sustained multiple firearm injuries”, Dr Syed stated.

The shootout

Both groups, one led by slain Fahad and the other by Ali Haider, provided different versions of the incident during a preliminary probe by the police, DIG Raza said.

Fahad’s side claimed they were attacked by Ali Haider and his gunmen, causing them to retaliate in “self-defence”. On the other hand, the Ali Haider group claimed they were the ones attacked first.

The DIG said investigators asked Ali Haider’s side about their purpose for visiting Fahad’s residence in Nishat Commercial, where the incident had occurred.

According to Raza, CCTV footage obtained by the police showed that Fahad Bugti, along with his gunmen, came out of his house sitting in two luxury vehicles, while Ali Haider — travelling in a single vehicle along with his gunmen/relatives — hit the car on the bumper of Fahad’s vehicle. Soon after, a heavy exchange of gunfire began between both sides.

The DIG said the bloody clash took place near the main gate of Fahad’s residence. He said initially, the shots were fired on the left side of Ali Haider’s vehicle and it appeared that straight bullets were not fired at him.

DAWN

 

[FearlessRoar]

Section 144 imposed in Quetta

The district administration also issued a notification to this effect.

The district administration also set up containers for an indefinite period on the roads entering and leaving the city of Quetta including Hazar Ganji, Lakpass, Maghrib Bypass and Sibi Road.

Meanwhile, security has been put on high alert throughout the city, district administration said.

Earlier, the Punjab Home Department had imposed Section 144 across the province and Islamabad, banning public gatherings and rallies for three days.

According to the notification, issued on Wednesday, section 144 will be in effect from Friday, July 26 to Sunday, July 28.

The ban had been imposed to maintain law and order and to prevent any potential terrorist threats.

The notification stated that the administration will ensure the implementation of the order across Punjab and Islamabad.

The imposition of Section 144 prohibits gatherings of five or more people, and any violation of the order can lead to legal action.

Section 144 imposed in Quetta

QUETTA: All kinds of public meetings, processions and rallies have been banned under section 144 in Quetta, ARY News reported. The district administration

arynews.tv

 

[Bhaijaan]

Baloch oppression by political regime over the decades will not be forgotten. So many generations suffered.

 

[FearlessRoar]

Baloch oppression by political regime over the decades will not be forgotten. So many generations suffered.

Take care of Khalistan and Manipur

 

[BouncerGuy]

14 injured as Baloch Yakjehti Committee convoy comes under fire in Mastung

Fourteen people were injured when supporters of the Baloch Yakjehti Committee (BYC), who were on their way to Gwadar to attend a rally on Sunday (today), came under fire in Mastung on Saturday.

While the BYC accused security forces of opening fire at their convoy, the deputy commissioner of Kalat in a press note stated that participants of the BYC march attacked a Levies checkpoint near Mastung.

BYC leader Bebarg Baloch alleged that personnel of “a law enforcement agency opened fire on our supporters” in Mastung when they were heading towards the Quetta-Karachi highway.

“At least 14 people were injured in the firing,” Bebarg said.

Five of the injured were in critical condition, according to a hospital spokesperson.

BYC, administration accuse each other of opening fire; govt places ban on rallies; Mahrang says over 200 people arrested

Mr Baloch said he himself was in the convoy when it was stopped at the Thana Sona Khan area and not allowed to travel to Mastung. He accused security agencies of using baton-charge and teargas shelling.

“But even then the convoy managed to reach the Quetta-Karachi highway. Here the forces opened fire at the crowd,” the BYC leader claimed.

Another BYC leader Dr Mahrang Baloch said, “Over 200 people bound for Gwadar” were arrested by security personnel.

Shahid Rind, the spokesman for the Balochistan government, denied that security forces had opened fire.

In a statement issued late on Saturday night, he said, “Some elements are trying to create a law and order situation”.

“But nobody is above the law and action will be taken against those who are out to sow strife,” he added.

The spokesman further said that the intention behind holding demonstrations in Gwadar “are clear”.

Shahid Rind said the government had conveyed to the BYC that it was ready to hold negotiations, recalling that Chief Minister Sarfraz Bugti had already given a policy statement on the issue in the Balochistan Assembly.

Rallies banned

The Quetta administration has imposed a ban on all types of gatherings, processions and rallies, sealing all roads leading to the Red Zone by parking containers on major roads.

According to a notification released late on Saturday night, Section 144 has been imposed in Quetta and no one would be allowed to hold rallies in the Red Zone. Containers were placed on the city’s entry and exit points, including Hazar Ganji, Lakpass, Western Bypass and the Quetta-Sibi road.

According to eyewitnesses, highways leading to Gwadar had been blocked at various points.

A BYC leader said the administration had asked the body to hold its public meeting at some other place instead of Gwadar.

Meanwhile, a press note issued by the deputy commissioner of Kalat stated that participants of the BYC march had attacked a Levies checkpoint near Mastung and resorted to “extreme violence”.

“The security forces stopped the rally three kilometres outside Mastung for negotiations. However, an armed mob which was waiting for the marchers in Mastung city opened fired on personnel of the Frontier Corps (FC). Two FC personnel and four civilians were injured,” the note said.

“The injured were shifted to Trauma Centre, Quetta, after medical aid in Mastung.”

DAWN

 

[FearlessRoar]

Even our athletes are now speaking about it

https://twitter.com/x/status/1817819823067242542

 

[The Bald Eagle]

Govt, protesters trade blame as Gwadar’s Baloch National Gathering descends into violence​

The provincial government and protesters traded blame on Monday over who was responsible for the outbreak of violence in Gwadar’s Baloch Rajee Muchi (Baloch National Gathering).

At least three people died and several were injured after participants of the Balochistan Yakjehti Committee (BYC) protest clashed with security personnel in different areas of the province a day ago. Despite roadblocks put in place by the authorities, a large number of people managed to make their way from across the province to Gwadar’s Marine Drive for the Baloch National Gathering.

Sources had told Dawn that two people were killed and as many injured after a convoy was stopped by the security forces at the Talar check-post. Officials had claimed that security forces were trying to defend themselves against a mob that reportedly attacked the checkpost.

Additionally, one person lost their life and eight people were injured in clashes that erupted after authorities used teargas in an attempt to disperse people gathered on Marine Drive. At least 20 people were also arrested.

Similar tensions were seen in Gwadar today as allegations were hurled from either side amid a communications blackout.

The BYC announced shutterdown and wheeljam strikes and sit-ins across the province against what it said was the “worst brutality of the state of Pakistan in Gwadar”.

It alleged that state forces “attacked the peaceful protest” and had surrounded the injured, “neither allowing them to be taken to the hospital nor giving access to the ambulance”.

“We fear that there will be many casualties if the injured are not given immediate medical attention. While hundreds of people have been forcibly disappeared from the sit-in venue and Gwadar city, several houses are being raided and ransacked,” the BYC alleged as it appealed to rights organisations and journalists to take notice.

Meanwhile, Balochistan Chief Minister Sarfaraz Bugti addressed the Balochistan Assembly and said the government had a prior agreement with the BYC that included acknowledgement of the state’s right to decide the venue for a protest or sit-in.

Bugti said the government had suggested the protest at Turbat and questioned why Gwadar was chosen when it was at the province’s “tail-end”.

“People say they (the protesters) are peaceful. Why do these peaceful [people] over their faces and how do they fire at Frontier Corps (FC)?”

He said a security official was martyred and one was injured today and cast doubt on the protesters being peaceful. He questioned whether the Constitution did not give the responsibility to protect peaceful citizens and further asked if “violent mobs can be permitted to come and run this assembly and government?”

He asked whether “violent people” should be garlanded. “The intentions of this rally were not peaceful. Their purpose is only to sabotage all those activities which benefit the people of Balochistan somehow,” Bugti added.

“Who is the one pitting the security forces against the people? Why was this protest not held in Turbat?”

Bugti reiterated the government’s offer for talks and negotiations, saying opposition lawmakers would be welcome to participate in the endeavour. “We will not allow anyone to take the law into their own hands no matter what measures we have to take,” he added.

He said the government would keep the province and its streets peaceful.

Bugti reiterated his offer of talks to the BYC and Dr Mahrang Baloch, saying the government was ready to accept all their demands on the condition that the government’s right to organise be recognised.

Similarly, Balochistan Home Minister Ziaullah Langove issued a scathing note late at night against the BYC protesters. “The state will fulfil its constitutional responsibility, the path of violence has been adopted not by us, but by the protesters,” he claimed.

1 martyred, 16 injured by ‘violent mob’: ISPR

Meanwhile, the Inter Services Public Relations (ISPR) said that a “violent mob … assaulted security forces’ personnel employed for security duties in Gwadar”, leading to the martyrdom of Sepoy Shabbir Baloch, 30, resident of Sibi district.

“In addition, the unprovoked assaults by the violent protesters have resulted in injuries to sixteen soldiers, including an officer. While on the other hand, fake and malicious propaganda is being spread on social media using doctored pictures and videos by the propagandists to gain sympathy and support,” the military’s media wing added.

It said the security forces had displayed “extreme restraint to avoid unwarranted civilian casualties despite provocations”.

Source: The Express Tribune

 

[BouncerGuy]

Road blocks, protests derail life across Balochistan

Widespread protests, sit-ins, and roadblocks in various districts of Balochistan on Tuesday, sparked by a crackdown on a protest in Gwadar, severely disrupted normal life and isolated the province from the rest of the country.

Protests continued in multiple towns and cities, including Gwadar, with reports of attacks on government officials, including a women’s police station, resulting in injuries to cops.

A large number of Baloch Yakjehti Committee (BYC) supporters continued their sit-in on Gwadar’s Marine Drive, where clashes with security forces have led to the deaths of at least one soldier and three protesters over the past three days.

According to Home Minister Mir Ziaullah Langove, the soldier was killed by an unruly mob pelting stones. Following a high-level meeting in Gwadar, Mr Langove claimed the situation was under control after dispersing the public meeting addressed by Dr Mahrang Baloch on Sunday.

However, thousands of people gathered at Marine Drive on Tuesday, prompted by rumors of her arrest, and staged a sit-in.

The spread of these rumours led to reactions from BYC supporters and workers in other cities and towns, who blocked highways and inter-provincial roads, cutting off Balochistan from other provinces. Gwadar Deputy Commissioner Hamoodur Rehman denied the arrest of Dr Mahrang and Seemi Deen, attributing the rumours to deliberate social media ‘misinformation’ campaign, aimed at worsening the situation.

The BYC leadership did not confirm the arrests, but reported the arrest of a local leader, Hussain Ashraf, from his home. A home department official stated Chief Minister Mir Sarfaraz Bugti had ordered that no women be arrested.

However, protesters reportedly beat a security official, while an unruly mob also attacked the B&R offices in Gwadar, officials claimed.

Meanwhile, BYC protesters, including women, staged sit-ins at Serena Roundabout and other areas in Quetta, severely affecting traffic.

A shutter-down strike was observed in multiple towns and cities, including Chagai, Noshki, Kharan, Dalbandin, Nokundi, Mastung, Kalat, and Khuzdar. Main highways, such as Quetta-Karachi and Quetta-Taftan, remained closed.

DAWN

 

[BouncerGuy]

Agreement elusive as Baloch Yakjehti Committee demands release of workers

As sporadic clashes between the supporters of Baloch Yakjehti Committee and police in Gwadar continued on Thursday, negotiations aimed at bringing the protests to an end remained inconclusive.

The BYC has been holding protests for almost a week at Marine Drive in Gwadar and other areas for achievement of the rights of the people of Balochistan.

The negotiations between the government and the BYC started on Wednesday evening and after an hour officials announced that talks had been successful and BYC had agreed to call off its protests.

However, BYC did not confirm it, saying more rounds of talks will be held.

BYC leader Dr Mahrang in a video massage said that negotiations were held with the government representatives and she had demanded release of all people arrested in connection with Baloch national gathering and withdrawal of all cases registered against them.

She said all routes blocked by the government should be opened and raids on the houses in Gwadar should be stopped and no one should be picked up.

“Until issuance of official notification about the acceptance of our demands and release of arrested people, a peaceful protest sit-in will continue,” Dr Mahrang announced.

Official sources told Dawn that the second round of negotiations continued, adding that Provincial Minister for Planning and Development Mir Zahoor Buledi had joined the talks after a meeting with Home Minister Ziaullah Langove.

“The main hurdle in reaching an agreement is inclusion of Article 16 of the Constitution in the ToRs,” a home department official said, claiming that the BYC leadership was opposing it.

Article 16 read, “Every citizen shall have the right to assemble peacefully and without arms, subject to any reasonable restrictions imposed by law in the interest of public order”.

The official confirmed that the sit-in was continuing in Gwadar and other areas.

Dr Mahrang, Sammi Deen, Sibghatullah Abdul Haq, National Party leader Hussain Ashraf, BNP leader Majid Baloch, Ghafoor Hoot, and Hussain Vadila of HDT are taking part in the negotiations from the BYC side, while Gwadar Deputy Commissioner Hamoodur Rehaman, DIG Makran Dr Zahid Fathan and other officials were representing the government in the talks.

Home Minister Langove said the fact that both sides are holding talks was a positive sign, adding that demands presented by BYC will be implemented according to the Constitution.

Sit-in continues

Meanwhile, the protest sit-in and demonstrations continued on the sixth day on Thursday with several national highways blocked.

Clashes between police and protesters in Gwadar were also reported. All routes leading to red zone in Quetta were sealed with barbed wire and containers.

Traffic was suspended on the Makran Coastal Highway, and the entry and exit points of Gwadar remain closed.

In Quetta, areas such as Sariab Road, Qambrani Road, Arbab Karam Khan Road, Brewery Road, Eastern and Western Bypass, Spinny Road, CPEC Road, Golimar Chowk, Podgali Chowk, University Road, and Sabzal Road were also blocked.

Business activities in Mastung, Kalat, Dalbandin, Chaghi, and various areas of Makran Division remained suspended.

The Quetta-Karachi National Highway was blocked while traffic on the Makran Coastal Highway was also suspended.

Closure of shops in the port town has created a risk of food shortage.

DAWN

 

[FearlessRoar]

Government announces financial aid for families of missing persons​

The federal government announced a new initiative under the "National Consensus and Legal Resolution" programme to provide financial aid to families of missing persons, offering Rs5 million to each affected family to alleviate their economic hardships.

The grant is designated for families of those who have been missing for more than five years.

The government clarified that this move should not be interpreted as an admission of responsibility by the state or its institutions but as a sincere and compassionate effort to share the pain of the affected families.

The initiative was discussed during a cabinet meeting, where the importance of respecting and safeguarding the lives of all citizens was highlighted.

The government is taking steps to address the issue of missing persons through the Commission of Inquiry on Enforced Disappearances (CIED).

Despite the complex and varied reasons behind the disappearances, the federal government aims to set a high standard of welfare by demonstrating empathy and support for those affected.

The government emphasised that while the state may not be directly responsible for the disappearances, it remains committed to assisting the families and working towards resolving the issue.

The move is part of Pakistan's broader efforts to reinforce legal and protective measures to address the missing persons crisis.

Government announces financial aid for families of missing persons | The Express Tribune

Financial aid programme launched to support families of missing individuals.

tribune.com.pk

 

[FearlessRoar]

‘Weakness, not strength’: Karachi activists furious over state crackdown on Baloch protesters

‘Gwadar ka mahasara band karo’ (stop the siege of Gwadar) echoed outside the Karachi Press Club (KPC) on Saturday afternoon as civil society activists took to the streets against the state crackdown on Baloch protesters in Sindh and Balochistan.

Under the dull sky, they chanted slogans against the government’s “cowardice” and “hypocrisy”. Their voices, the loudest among the three demonstrations underway in the area, were undeterred even as the city’s humidity levels peaked.

“We won’t back down until and unless the oppression stops,” said Virsa Pirzado, one of the protesters and a member of the Sindh Commission on the Status of Women. “The state clamp down is unacceptable, the way they arrested them is unacceptable, the way they beat up Baloch women and children is unacceptable.”

“The issue of missing persons is genuine,” she added.

On Friday night, several workers of the Baloch Yakjehti Committee (BYC) were arrested when they gathered near the Arts Council roundabout to stage a rally in protest over incidents of alleged torture and detention in Gwadar.

According to the BYC, the police allegedly manhandled participants of the rally and detained around 50 workers, including women, when they tried to march on the KPC. On the other hand, the police claimed organisers violated the ban on holding any unlawful assembly in the Red Zone, adding that 14 male activists were booked under the relevant sections of the Pakistan Penal Code while women protesters were released immediately.

But activists who gathered for the release of these detainees today claimed that the number of those arrested was largely underreported.

“Last night, around 150 Baloch protesters, including students, were subjected to baton-charge and arrested for nothing. They were just lodging a peaceful protest,” Dr Riaz Ahmed, a Karachi University professor, told Dawn.com.

“Several of those arrested have not yet returned home; their names are not in the first information reports and we fear they will be declared missing persons,” he said.

Ahmed highlighted that peaceful Baloch protesters were being pushed into a corner. “Where is the civilian government? All these political parties only speak up when they are being benefitted. But what about the public? Who will listen to them?” he questioned.

The professor, who has spearheaded several protests in the city, added that he was prepared to be arrested today. Ahmed’s sentiment was shared by other protesters as well. One by one, they took turns to deliver fiery speeches, unsparing in their critique of the authorities.

Among them was also senior journalist Mujahid Barelvi, who lambasted the authorities for imposing a four-day ban on holding public gatherings and rallies within the city’s Red Zone.

“I have written an application to the KPC’s governing body and I have demanded that as long as their ban remains, the Press Club be declared a Red Zone for any government official,” he stated as his fellow demonstrators cheered him on.

What started as a small protest soon expanded into a crowd. Soon, the demonstrators decided to march towards the Artillery Maidan police station — which is located a short distance from the Press Club — and check on the status of the detainees.

They were, however, stopped by a large contingent of police, both men and women officers. In contrast to the unarmed protesters, the police had batons in their hands. Thankfully, they weren’t used.

Artillery Maidan Station House Officer (SHO) Imtiaz was also on-site and tried to placate the protesters. After a 10-minute round of back and forth, the two parties reached a settlement: the protesters won’t move forward if the police provided them with a list of Baloch men and women in custody since last night.

SHO Imtiaz subsequently made some calls. “FIRs have been registered against 22 people for violating Section 144 and they will be presented before the judicial magistrate tomorrow,” he later said, adding that minors had been released.

However, the protesters were not convinced. Speaking to Dawn.com, Dr Iqra Baloch said: “How is it possible that the police are never present anywhere but at a protest, especially when it concerns the Baloch people?” she asked.

On the other hand, activist Anum Khan emphasised that the protest in Gwadar was being held to speak up against the chronic problem of enforced disappearances. “But the response by the state in the form of intimidation and force … this shows their weakness, not their strength,” she added.

‘Weakness, not strength’: Karachi activists furious over state crackdown on Baloch protesters

Lodge protest outside press club, say "all levels of torture crossed".

www.dawn.com

 

[BouncerGuy]

Noshki killing brings govt, BYC face to face, again

The distrust between the government and Baloch Yakjehti Committee (BYC) leadership has further deepened after fresh recriminations over the killing of a protester in Noshki.

Protests, roadblocks and sit-in continued to disrupt life across the province on Saturday as both BYC and the government accused each other of not honouring the agreement reached after negotiations to end the demonstrations.

The situation has again reached a tipping point as BYC accused security forces of killing one of its supporters, Hamden Baloch, and injuring two others in Noshki the other day.

The group claimed security forces opened fire on a peaceful procession near the Railway station, resulting in casualties.

Noshki Deputy Commissioner Amjad Hussian Soomro confirmed the death of one person but claimed that protesters had clashed with security forces, which resulted in the casualty.

Anticipating protests in response to the Noshki incident, the Quetta district administration again blocked roads leading towards the red zone with heavy deployment of security forces.

Similar disruptions have been witnessed across the province as BYC supporters staged a sit-in in Noshki and blocked the Quetta-Taftan national highway, suspending vehicular movement, which also affected the trade between Pakistan and Iran.

In Quetta, protesters held a sit-in in front of the Balochistan University and blocked the Quetta-Karachi highway in Mastung, Kalat, Khuzdar, Lasbela and Hub.

Due to roadblocks, no buses or truck left for Karachi from Quetta.

The Gwadar-Surab-Panjgur Road, University Chowk and Hazar Ganji Eastern Bypass also remained closed due to the protests, causing severe difficulties for people.

Though strikes continued in Noshki, Chagai, Mastung, Kalat, Khuzdar, Kharan, Panjgur and Kech on Saturday, businesses opened in the port city of Gwadar.

The area remained at the centre of the conflict for the past week, with business centres remaining shut in the presence of heavy security.

However, internet and cellular services have still not resumed in the area.

The prolonged sit-in and roadblock in Gwadar caused a shortage of food items and other essential goods.

The prices of these items also increased due to high demand.

Distrust between BYC, govt

Meanwhile, officials who held talks with BYC leaders, including Dr Mahrang Baloch, in Gwadar claimed that the group had agreed to end sit-ins.

They added that over 80 BYC supporters who were arrested during the protests were released soon after the agreement was reached, while the others nominated in FIRs will be freed by August 5 after completing judicial proceedings.

Ms Baloch has disputed the official version, claiming that BYC workers and supporters who were arrested for participating in Baloch Raji Muchi (Baloch national gathering) in Gwadar have not been released.

As the local administration of Gwadar claimed that it was implementing the agreement, BYC leaders said the sit-in would continue in Gwadar until over 500 of their supporters were released.

Fresh talks

Officials have started a fresh round of talks with the protesters in Gwadar as Deputy Commissioner Amjad Hussain Soomro and Assistant Commissioner Abdul Samad Lehri arrived at the site of the sit-in for negotiations.

The Balochistan Assembly member from Noshki and Jamiat Ulema-i-Islam leader Mir Ghulam Dastgeer Badini and Manzoor Ahmed Mengal also took part in the negotiations.

DAWN

 

[FearlessRoar]

Won’t spare those who aim to weaken Balochistan: Bugti​

Balochistan's Chief Minister, Sarfraz Bugti, has made a firm commitment to counter any attempts to destabilize the province, emphasizing the government's zero-tolerance policy against terrorism and extremism.

Speaking at the Martyrs' Day ceremony, Bugti declared, "We won’t spare those who aim to weaken Balochistan," asserting that the true honour lies with the families of the martyrs who have sacrificed their lives for the nation.

"The martyrs are remembered every day of the year," he said, highlighting their enduring significance.

In his address, the CM discussed the challenges that Balochistan has faced, stating, "Numerous conspiracies have been attempted in our country, but the nation has robustly defended against the fault lines of terrorism."

He recalled the turbulent past when Balochistan was plagued by terrorism, adding, "We have avenged the blood of our martyrs."

Bugti stressed that terrorism in Balochistan has been propagated through religious and nationalist means. However, he assured that the provincial police and Levies are well-equipped to counter these threats, stating, "Those who take up arms will be confronted directly."

He also condemned the tactics used under the guise of peaceful protests, where ordinary citizens were reportedly abducted and women used as shields, violating local traditions.

"This fight is not just for the police but for all of us," Bugti stated, calling for a collective effort to combat the forces of division.

"Our martyrs are fortunate to have sacrificed their blood for this country," Bugti affirmed, promising that the government would take every measure to support the families of those who have fallen. He pledged to eradicate terrorism from Pakistan, asserting confidently that "Pakistan will always endure."

Won’t spare those who aim to weaken Balochistan: Bugti | The Express Tribune

Balochistan CM highlights that countless conspiracies have failed as the nation defends against terrorism's fault lines

tribune.com.pk

 

[BouncerGuy]

Baloch Yakjehti Committee calls off protests after talks with govt bear fruit

The leadership of the Baloch Yakjehti Committee (BYC) has called off its sit-in in Gwadar and other areas of Balochistan, following a marathon round of talks with government officials that concluded late on Thursday night.

The negotiations were held in Gwadar, with senior minister Mir Zahoor Ahmed Buledi leading the government delegation and Dr Mahrang Baloch and Sammi Deen representing the BYC.

Officials confirmed that all issues between the government and the BYC were resolved during the final round of discussions, which lasted several hours.

Dr Mahrang then announced the decision to call off the protests in Gwadar and other regions.

“After ending our sit-in in the port city, the BYC convoy will leave for Turbat where a public gathering will be held,” she stated.

The convoy is set to depart for Turbat at 10am, with a public rally planned for the afternoon.

Makran Commissioner Dawood Khiliji, Gwadar DC Hamoodur Rehman, SSP Najeeb Paindran, and National Party leader Hussain Ashraf were also part of the talks.

DAWN NEWS

 

[BouncerGuy]

Three killed, 10 injured in Quetta attacks

Three people were killed and at least 10 were injured in different attacks in the provincial capital, on Tuesday.

In a deadly explosion, one person was killed and six injured in Quetta’s Liaquat Bazaar area, while a separate grenade attack targeted a girls’ high school, injuring one person.

Officials said an unknown motorcyclist hurled a grenade at a shop selling Independence Day items. The explosion caused significant damage, injuring seven people, including the shop owner and his brother.

Rescue and police officials shifted the injured to the trauma centre of Civil Hospital.

One of the victims, identified as Irfanullah, succumbed to his injuries during treatment.

The grenade attack was reported early Tuesday morning at a girls’ high school on Munir Mengal Road in the Sariab Road area. Unknown assailants threw a grenade near the school gate, damaging a portion of the building and injuring the watchman. He was promptly taken to Civil Hospital for treatment.

A separate remote-controlled bomb blast was reported at Bugti Stadium in Kharan. However, there were no casualties.Another grenade attack targeted a security forces checkpost in Panjgur, again without causing any casualties.

In an attack late on Tuesday night, two people were killed and three injured in explosions inside two houses in Killi Deba area of Quetta.

Police said unknown motorcyclists fired three grenades through a launcher towards Ayub Stadium where a bodybuilding competition was taking place in connection with Independence Day.

However, two explosives landed in as many houses while a third one exploded in a private parking lot. The deceased were identified as Muhammad and Beebal, wife of Ghulam Nabi.

DAWN NEWS

 

[FearlessRoar]

Balochistan CM vows to establish writ as violence mars Pakistan’s Independence Day celebrations

Balochistan Chief Minister Sarfaraz Ahmed Bugti on Thursday vowed to establish the writ of the state after violence marred Independence Day celebrations in the southwestern province this week, resulting in the killing of five people.

Separatist groups in mineral-and-gas-rich Balochistan have attacked shops and stalls selling Independence Day merchandise in the province in the past. On Aug. 13, a man was killed in an IED blast that targeted a shop selling Pakistan’s national flag in the provincial capital of Quetta. The same day, unidentified men killed two people in Quetta by firing at them with a grenade launcher. On Aug. 14, a man was killed and 10 others injured in a blast that targeted an Independence Day gathering at the Quetta Railway Station.

All attacks were claimed by the separatist Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) group, which is among ethnic Baloch militants that have launched an insurgency in the province for decades. The militants demand independence from the center, accusing the state of exploiting Balochistan’s mineral resources for their benefit, a charge the Pakistani state vehemently denies.

“Whosoever wants to negotiate with the government, our doors are open for them but the writ of the state wouldn’t be compromised at any cost,” Bugti told reporters at a news conference in Quetta.

“The provincial government has zero-tolerance policy against people attacking schools, laborers, doctors, teachers and ethnic Balochs.”

Balochistan has seen an uptick in violence since the last week of July after an ethnic Baloch rights group known as the Baloch Yakjehti Committee (BYC) called a public national gathering in the port city of Gwadar.

The gathering aimed to highlight alleged human rights abuses, extra-judicial killings, and enforced disappearances in Balochistan that rights activists and the families of victims blame on Pakistani security forces.

Their protests triggered clashes with Pakistani security forces in various parts of the province, prompting the government to arrest protesters. However, last week the BYC announced it has called off its protests, citing a deal reached with the government.

When asked about the government’s action against the BYC, Bugti described the group as a “legitimate voice” for separatist outfits.

“BYC’s women supporters were seen on camera instigating security forces deliberately but the government didn’t arrest any woman protesters and dealt them with restraint,” he said.

He blamed some elements for attempting to shrink the state’s “social space” through mobilization campaigns. Bugti said the government would have to deter these attempts through good governance.

The chief minister blamed the killing of Zakir Jan Baloch, the deputy commissioner of the Panjgur district in Balochistan, on the BLA. Baloch was gunned down by unidentified assailants in Mastung district some 67 kilometers away from Quetta on Aug. 12.

The banned outfit denies involvement in the killing.

Dr. Mahrang Baloch, a 31-year-old activist who heads the BYC, criticized Bugti’s comments, reiterating that her group does not back any separatist outfit.

She said the BYC is leading a peaceful protest movement against the state’s oppressive tactics, which included enforced disappearances and torturing dissidents.

“The chief minister should have given statements about the use of intense force against BYC’s women protesters,” she told Arab News, accusing the government of dishonoring its agreement with the BYC.

“After the first agreement, the authorities killed one of our supporters in a straight firing attack on a peaceful protest in Nushki, which was a clear violation of the agreement,” she said.

“We still demand a judicial inquiry to probe who ordered violence against BYC supporters in Gwadar which killed three of our members and injured dozens.”

Balochistan CM vows to establish writ as violence mars Pakistan’s Independence Day celebrations

QUETTA: Balochistan Chief Minister Sarfaraz Ahmed Bugti on Thursday vowed to establish the writ of the state after violence marred Independence Day celebrations in the southwestern province this week, resulting in the killing of five people. Separatist groups in mineral-and-gas-rich Balochistan...

www.arabnews.pk

 

[The Bald Eagle]

Islamabad High Court’s (IHC) Justice Miangul Hasan Aurangzeb on Thursday questioned how the government was planning to attract foreign investment amid the continuing phenomenon of missing persons in the country

The judge issued the remarks during a hearing related to the recovery of missing PTI worker Malik Faizan.

Two days ago, the IHC had also summoned the interior and defence secretaries, the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) director general, and the Islamabad inspector general of police (IG) on a petition seeking the recovery of PTI activist Azhar Mishwani’s two brothers.

Zahoor and Mazhar were allegedly picked up by law enforcement agencies in June, with Lahore High Court’s (LHC) Justice Syed Shahbaz Ali Rizvi ordering the Punjab IG to recover the two brothers.

The PTI has also launched a campaign on social media for the recovery of “abducted” workers and activists, including the party’s international media coordinator Ahmad Waqas Janjua. The campaign aims to draw the attention of the courts to the disappearances.

Justice Aurangzeb heard the petition for Faizan’s recovery today.

“The world is also watching what Pakistani courts are doing in cases of missing persons,” Justice Aurangzeb said. “Or either admit that the world come and invests here but people will still go missing and the courts will not be able to do anything.”

He continued: “If the government calls it a case of enforced disappearance, then they need to find out who ordered it. The government then needs to sit down with the abductors.”

When the judge asked who the missing workers were, the petitioner’s lawyer mentioned Faizan, who works for the PTI’s media cell.

Addressing the additional attorney general, Justice Aurangzeb — in a harsh tone — suggested that he “change the Constitution, remove fundamental rights from it, end our (the court’s) jurisdiction”.

“I don’t know what the state wants to achieve with this. You arrest him (Faizan) and we won’t say anything, but the country cannot run like this,” the judge said.

“The Ministry of Defence, Ministry of Interior, and the state are all content with this, but I don’t understand what is going on. What do you aim to achieve with this?” Justice Aurangzeb asked.

The judge also remarked that earlier, the bench which heard the case wrote that it was a matter of enforced disappearance.

Calling it a “cruel act”, he wondered what the constitutional courts should do in such a situation.

“The federal government means the prime minister and the federal cabinet, so the responsibility ultimately rests with the executive,” Justice Aurangzeb remarked.

The additional attorney general said that the petitioners “did not knock on the door of the court with clean hands”.

In response, Justice Aurangzeb remarked: “Should the petition be dismissed if they did not file the petition with clean hands?”

Source: Dawn News

 

[FearlessRoar]

Balochistan Home Minister Mir Zia Langau denotified by Election Tribunal​

Balochistan Home Minister Mir Zia Langau has been denotified and declared ineligible to hold public office by the Election Tribunal on Wednesday.

The tribunal’s decision followed a petition filed by Mir Saeed Langove, who alleged electoral fraud by the now-disqualified minister.

The Election Tribunal found irregularities in the electoral process and has ordered re-polling at seven polling stations in the constituency of Mir Zia Langau.

As a result of this ruling, Mir Zia Langau is no longer the Home Minister of Balochistan.

In a related development, Gohram Bugti of the Jamhoori Watan Party has challenged the election victory of Balochistan Chief Minister Sarfaraz Bugti.

Gohram Bugti's petition questions Sarfaraz Bugti's eligibility to contest the election, arguing that his role as a minister in the caretaker cabinet should have disqualified him.

The petition further alleges that Sarfaraz Bugti manipulated the election process by securing the posting of favourable polling staff and achieving an implausibly high vote ratio in certain areas.

Gohram Bugti has called for thumb verification of voters and requested the tribunal to declare the PB-10 seat vacant, paving the way for a by-election.

Balochistan Home Minister Mir Zia Langau denotified by Election Tribunal | The Express Tribune

The Election Tribunal ordered re-polling at seven polling stations in Mir Zia Langau's constituency.

tribune.com.pk

 

[FearlessRoar]

Balochistan terrorism: Attacks on police and FC; train service suspended​

Balochistan witnessed a series of coordinated terrorist attacks across multiple districts, resulting in casualties, significant infrastructure damage, and heightened security operations.

In Bela tehsil of Lasbela district, terrorists attacked a Frontier Corps (FC) camp. In a swift retaliatory action by the FC, five terrorists were killed, while the remaining attackers managed to escape.

Security forces have since launched a search operation in the area to apprehend those who fled.

Railway track blown up, bodies found

Simultaneously, another group of terrorists struck in Bolan district, where they blew up a railway bridge in the Dozan area using explosives. The destruction of the bridge caused a complete suspension of train services between Quetta and other parts of the country.

According to the railway administration, the Jafar and Bolan mails could not depart from Quetta, with services expected to resume only after the bridge is repaired.

Separately, the administration claims to have found five bodies from Kolpur Hills. The assistant commissioner concerned claimed the victims appeared to have been gunned down. The bodies were shifted to the Civil Hospital, he said, adding that they had yet to be identified.

Separately, the administration claims to have found five bodies from Kolpur Hills. The assistant commissioner concerned claimed the victims appeared to have been gunned down. The bodies were shifted to the Civil Hospital, he said, adding that they had yet to be identified.

Levies police station takeover

In the Khad Koocha area of Mastung district, terrorists escalated their violence by attacking and temporarily capturing a Levies police station.

According to sources, the assailants first targeted the station with heavy weaponry before taking control of it. As soon as the authorities received the alert, a heavy contingent of Levies and FC forces was dispatched to the scene.

After several hours of intense firing, the terrorists managed to flee. A clearance operation was launched in the area to secure the region. The Mastung deputy commissioner arrived at the police station, and additional security forces were called in.

The authorities said armed men were reported checking vehicles on the Quetta-Karachi highway, further intensifying the security situation.

Gwadar police checkpost attack

On the other hand, unidentified persons attacked a police station in Jiwani area of Gwadar. The assailants set fire to two vehicles of the provincial and Coastal Highway police forces. They took the policemen hostage and later made off with their weapons.

Earlier in the day, territories stopped a passenger bus and killed 23 people in a firing incident in Rarasham area of Musakhel in Balochistan.

Terrorists stopped vehicles on the national highway and gunned down passengers after checking their identity cards. A heavy contingent of Levies and police reached the spot. Balochistan Levies officials said the bodies of the passengers were shifted to hospitals.

Balochistan terrorism: Attacks on police and FC; train service suspended

Balochistan faces multiple terrorist attacks, including an FC camp assault in Lasbela, a railway bridge bombing in Bolan, and a police station takeover in Mastung. Security operations are ongoing as several terrorists remain at large.

www.samaa.tv

 

[shortbread]

It's open season in Balochistan against anyone considered ethnic Punjabi, there's no remorse! Fuelled by a profound distrust of Islamabad's intentions as a mediator for peace and governance. The local population, long deprived of essential resources, feels increasingly marginalized, especially amid the dire economic conditions of the past decade. Many believe that the government's neglect is rooted in bias, as they endure the consequences of Islamabad's perceived stinginess. Instead of addressing the pressing concerns of the Baloch people, the civilian govt. and establishment have chosen to exert their power, further alienating the community and eroding any faith in Pakistan's leadership. This neglect has cultivated a crisis that the nation appears determined to overlook, mistakenly hoping time will heal these festering wounds, when in reality, conditions continue to deteriorate, from bad to worse, and worser still.

The immediate de-fault solution, more anti-terrorist operations, one is stubborn not to learn!

 

[Kianig89]

Why not make more administrative units and divide provinces to root out these insecurities

 

[JaDed]

Why not make more administrative units and divide provinces to root out these insecurities

Lol India did that with J and K and only yesterday not related to terrorism but gave five new districts to Ladakh..

 

[Cricket Warrior]

Support for terrorists increasing in Balochistan population: Kakar

Former Prime Minister Senator Anwar-ul-Haq Kakar has defended the current government, stating that it deserves time to implement its policies and reap the benefits of its economic reforms. He pointed to the recent improvement in Pakistan’s credit rating by Moody’s as a positive sign.

Speaking on the news program “News Insight with Aamir Zia” today, Kakar asserted that the fruits of the policies implemented during his tenure are now becoming evident. He believes that the current government’s actions will lead to improved revenue collection and expenditure adjustments in the upcoming fiscal year.

Responding to a question about the upcoming elections in February 2024, Kakar claimed that the process of making the elections controversial had already begun. He attributed the rise of “dharna politics” or protest culture to the 2013 elections, arguing that it was not a response to economic issues or terrorism but rather a challenge to the electoral process itself.

Kakar believes that the public’s concern is not with rigging itself, but with the extent of rigging. He suggested that a small amount of rigging might be acceptable.

When asked about his assessment of former Prime Minister Imran Khan’s performance, Kakar expressed disappointment, stating that Khan’s focus was on creating narratives and appearances rather than addressing actual issues.

While acknowledging that the current government is not without its flaws, Kakar stated that he cannot offer the same level of support to the current coalition as he did to the PTI, as there are questions surrounding some of its members.

He warned that if the government fails to address the economic and political crises, it will lose its political capital. This, he believes, could negatively impact the entire political landscape, potentially benefiting the PTI or another political party.

Regarding the recent terrorist attacks in Balochistan, Kakar expressed concern over the apparent increase in the terrorists’ organization and capabilities, as well as their growing support among the local population.

He attributed this development to the withdrawal of NATO forces from the region in 2022, which left behind a large quantity of small arms. These weapons have fallen into the hands of various non-state actors, including terrorist groups, who are now challenging different states using these resources.


AAJ News

 

[mazkhan]

Well done kakar for telling us the local support for ethnofascism terrorism.

It's time to start calling these tribes involved in these attacks and their male population enemy combatants they don't need to have a uniform or anything they are guerilla army and use civilian cover.

Just start taking them.out in special forces raids and drone attacks.

Special forces can reduce their own risk by sending malinos and gsds attacks dogs wired with explosives and then go in once the explosives go up.

If these terrorists are holed with women and children gul naz and gul bano then so be it, either come out in the open and fight a proper fight like ukraine and russia trench warfare but don't cry if buzurg baba sher khan , and bibi mato get killed as collateral .

I'm sick of these attacks on pakistan civilians , polio teams and cowardly ambushes on soldiers and ied attacks.

These people don't play by rules of engagement and neither should our troops .

Smash them and they will be on table for a peace deal.

 

[Bhaijaan]

Well done kakar for telling us the local support for ethnofascism terrorism.

It's time to start calling these tribes involved in these attacks and their male population enemy combatants they don't need to have a uniform or anything they are guerilla army and use civilian cover.

Just start taking them.out in special forces raids and drone attacks.

Special forces can reduce their own risk by sending malinos and gsds attacks dogs wired with explosives and then go in once the explosives go up.

If these terrorists are holed with women and children gul naz and gul bano then so be it, either come out in the open and fight a proper fight like ukraine and russia trench warfare but don't cry if buzurg baba sher khan , and bibi mato get killed as collateral .

I'm sick of these attacks on pakistan civilians , polio teams and cowardly ambushes on soldiers and ied attacks.

These people don't play by rules of engagement and neither should our troops .

Smash them and they will be on table for a peace deal.

It’s not going to be easy.
They’re not Hindu minorities that you can just hit with bamboo and they will go back to their huts.

These are brave Islamist fidayeen who believe in a much greater cause and won’t be afraid to blow themselves up, all of them. Even an 8 year old Baloch kid will if commanded wear an explosive jacket and kill 100s of mainland Pakistanis just like that.

If it was this easy, we would have achieved complete peace in Kashmir. We are dealing with them since decades and despite our best efforts, best commandos and special units, we have not been able to root out Islamist terrorism from the valley.

Look at what happened with the Yanks in Afghanistan.

You may be a hater but you have to give it to Muslims for absolutely nailing the art of militancy. I am no fan of using the word terrorist because it is used by whoever deems it for to their propaganda but the fact and bottom line is that 100 Islamist militants if they keep getting replaced by a sizeable population of supporters are are almost impossible to ever eliminate completely.

We killed Burhan Wanj and a dozen of his successors ever since whose names are no more mentioned because we all got tired and frustrated. They keep on replacing them with a blink of an eye. How are you ever going to fight THAT?

 

[mazkhan]

It’s not going to be easy.
They’re not Hindu minorities that you can just hit with bamboo and they will go back to their huts.

These are brave Islamist fidayeen who believe in a much greater cause and won’t be afraid to blow themselves up, all of them. Even an 8 year old Baloch kid will if commanded wear an explosive jacket and kill 100s of mainland Pakistanis just like that.

If it was this easy, we would have achieved complete peace in Kashmir. We are dealing with them since decades and despite our best efforts, best commandos and special units, we have not been able to root out Islamist terrorism from the valley.

Look at what happened with the Yanks in Afghanistan.

You may be a hater but you have to give it to Muslims for absolutely nailing the art of militancy. I am no fan of using the word terrorist because it is used by whoever deems it for to their propaganda but the fact and bottom line is that 100 Islamist militants if they keep getting replaced by a sizeable population of supporters are are almost impossible to ever eliminate completely.

We killed Burhan Wanj and a dozen of his successors ever since whose names are no more mentioned because we all got tired and frustrated. They keep on replacing them with a blink of an eye. How are you ever going to fight THAT?

It will be easy

Besides there are more baloch origin people in sindh and punjab than balochistan itself
Bilawal bhutto is a zardari baloch.

There are more illegal Afghans in balochistan than balochis themselves. One of the biggest calamity is because of this open border and these people

Even in tribal areas a lot of the fighters are Afghans we just killed one the other day in waizirstan who hails from faryab in Afghanistan.

We have been at war with balochi and Afghans since pakistans inception back in the 50s they actually invaded bajaur and mohmand before army came and pushed them back pakistan army is much stronger and has more highter quality technology since 1950. They have been attacking us even when pakistan never even went into fata or balochistan and allowed them to manage their own affairs

It's failure in goverment and current military leaders musharraf and raheel sharif took the fight to enemy.


This baloch separatism is nothing back in the days the whole marri tribe and mengal tribe migrated to afghanistan. When they knew they were gonna get a backside whopping.

Our army is being restrained atm and letting the local stakeholders like cm bugti a chance but if things continue china will give pakistan the nod and then you will see pakistan army unleash and we won't be worrying about human rights if pakistan army goes crazy like assad or an african army like Congo or Sudan these namak harams will crap their pants in no time , punjabis aren't exactly small men we are physically the biggest in pakistan , they are expert in a good desi chitrol and torture isi and punjab police are experts .

Like I said atm it's waiting game

But continue murder of punjabi travellers, pilgrims , labourers will end up in a reprisal since we host millions of afghans , pathans and baloch on our areas and cities and are the bread basket of pakistan.

 

[The Bald Eagle]

Sardar Akhtar Mengal, chief of the Balochistan National Party-Mengal (BNP-M), resigned from the National Assembly on Tuesday

Mengal was elected as an MNA from Khuzdar (NA-256) in the general elections held on February 8.

The veteran politician’s resignation — which awaits acceptance — comes amid heightened security tensions in Balochistan after recent deadly attacks and increased protests over past months against enforced disappearances.

In a letter addressed to NA Speaker Sardar Ayaz Sadiq, a copy of which is available with Dawn.com, Mengal said the “prevailing situation in Balochistan has compelled me to take this step”.

“Our province has consistently been marginalised and ignored by this House. Each day, we are pushed further to the wall, leaving us with no choice but to reconsider our roles.

“The lack of genuine representation in this Assembly for the people of Balochistan has left voices like mine unable to bring meaningful change.

“It has become increasingly clear that our attempts to speak or protest are met with hostility, our people are either silenced, labelled as traitors, or worse, killed,” Mengal wrote in his letter.

“Under such circumstances, I find it impossible to continue in this capacity, as my presence here no longer serves any purpose for the people I represent,” Mengal wrote.

Requesting the NA speaker to accept his resignation, the BNP-M chief expressed the hope for Balochistan to “be protected and prosper”.

Meanwhile, in a post on X, Mengal termed his resignation as a “tribute” to his father, BNP-M founder Sardar Attaullah Mengal.

“On the third death anniversary of my father, Sardar Attaullah Mengal, I resign as a Member of Parliament as a tribute to him,” Mengal wrote in a post on X.

He reiterated that the prevailing situation in Balochistan has compelled him to make this decision.

“Under these circumstances, I find it impossible to act any longer in this capacity, because my presence here has not been of any benefit to the people I represent,” the post read.

Source: Dawn News

 

[mazkhan]

Again a treacherous people mengal along with marris they migrated before to afghanistan

What's worse is the mengel tribe originally is the local aboriginal people of jat origins they are related to punjabis and sindhis and speak brahui language they were absorbed into the baloch tribal system.

Pakistan army needs to sharpen its swords and finish this fight once and for all we can't have a large landmass like balochistan ungoverned and it's development not benefiting the rest of the nation .

I'm sick of these ethnofascists parties playing ethnic politics like I said you will find more baloch originated people in south punjab and sindh than balochistan , tribal wise even zardari and bilawal are baloch .

 

[mazkhan]

Look at this hypocrisy of ethno fascist mengal they have been given royalties wages and bought into power yet they can't uplift their own populace due to their tribal slavery system can't offer security , cant stop smuggling , cant bring law and order , can't offer a stable environment for chinese foreign investment then moan when military wants to decend and clean up.

They want their cake and eat it and still let attacks on Chinese and punjabi civilians to be offloaded and murdered.
They even murdered punjabis fleeing pakistan via land route to Europe they caught them at iranian border and executed them in cold blood and took their valuables and money.

There was once case in barkhan with khetran sardar who enslaved a rival members family and raped and killed his wife and sons and enslaved some of his other sons. This guy was in national assembly.

Not anymore hopefully hafiz munir is serious now we need operation in all these areas including the lar aw bar types in kpk and their adda that Is afghanistan.

 

[The Bald Eagle]

Govt, PTI beseech Akhtar Mengal to recant resignation, continue to act as Balochistan’s voice in NA

The government and the PTI beseeched Balochistan National Party-Mengal chief Akhtar Mengal on Wednesday to take back his resignation as an MNA and continue to be a voice for Balochistan in the National Assembly.

Mengal resigned from the National Assembly a day ago citing frustration and lack of freedom in Parliament as well as the apathy of lawmakers towards insecurity faced by the people of Balochistan.

He was elected as an MNA from Khuzdar (NA-256) in the February 8 elections. He was also elected as an MNA in 2018. Mengal also served as the chief minister of Balochistan.

The veteran politician’s resignation came amid heightened security tensions in Balochistan after recent deadly attacks and increased protests over past months against enforced disappearances.

A government delegation led by Adviser to the Prime Minister on Political Affairs and Inter-Provincial Coordination Rana Sanaullah visited Mengal at the Parliament Lodges today to convince him to take back his resignation.

Speaking to the media after the meeting, Sanaullah said: “We requested him to remain a part of Parliament and to continue his struggle in the same way as he always has in the ambit of the law and the Constitution to talk about Balochistan’s rights and deprivation and the bravery with which he has fought the case of the people of Balochistan.

“All of us are appreciative of him and we are with him.”

Sanaullah said Mengal had “registered out review petition” and hoped that it would be accepted by the veteran politician.

“We respect him immensely and he has a very powerful and strong voice and role for Balochistan’s rights and deprivation and it should remain present in Parliament.”

Sanaullah said the concerns that Mengal had expressed were a “keepsake” with the delegation and would be forwarded to the “concerned quarters”.

Source: Dawn News

 

[FearlessRoar]

Balochistan to reach out to political parties​

Balochistan Chief Minister Mir Sarfraz Bugti stated on Saturday that the government is ready to engage all political parties to collectively address the challenges faced by the province.

CM Balochistan, speaking at a reception in honor of Pakistan Peoples Party Secretary General, Syed Nayyar Hussain Bukhari, which was attended by provincial ministers and assembly members, said that his government is striving hard to improve the governance model to extend relief to the masses and resolve the challenges.

He said that the lack of good governance, law and order and climate change were the major challenges of the province.

Bugti vowed to make collective efforts for sustainable development and resolve common challenges of the province.

He said that the provision of modern education to the youth and best health facilities were among the key priorities of the provincial government and special attention was being paid to them.

He said President Asif Ali Zardari and PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari wanted Balochistan's development for the sake of the people's uplift.

He reiterated the government's resolve to bring significant improvement in the education and health sectors under the guidance of the party leadership.

Balochistan to reach out to political parties | The Express Tribune

Balochistan to reach out to political parties

tribune.com.pk

 

[FearlessRoar]

After PTI, BNP-M claims lawmakers under pressure to vote for ‘constitutional package’

The chief of the Balochistan National Party-Mengal (BNP-M) Akhtar Mengal has claimed that two senators of his party were being “pressurised” to vote in favour of a highly anticipated “constitutional package”.

The “constitutional package” is a set of proposed amendments to the Constitution that aims to — among other things — fix the tenure of the chief justice of Pakistan (CJP) at three years.

With sessions of both houses of the parliament summoned this evening (Saturday) with only an hour’s gap, the legislation seems set to be introduced in parliament today.

A constitutional amendment is passed or rejected through open ballot, in which those who go against their parties’ stance cannot conceal their vote.

While speaking to DawnNewsTV programme Doosra Rukh yesterday, the BNP-M leader said that the houses of two of his party’s senators were being raided.

“There is Senator Muhammad Qasim whose house was raided and even now, in Karachi, intelligence agencies’ cars are patrolling his house,” Mengal alleged.

“Our second senator Nasima Ehsaan has said that her relatives and her husband are being pressurised,” he added.

He said Ehsaan was threatened that her property would be confiscated, adding that the government was only having “this kind of communication” with the party.

“But no formal communication took place,” he said.

Mengal added that the government wanted to bring about the constitutional amendment by either keeping the people unaware of it or by using force.

Opposition parties — including the PTI, BNP-M and Jamiat Ulema-i-Islam-Fazl (JUI-F) — have warned their members that they could be unseated from parliament if they voted in favour of the proposed constitutional package.

‘This bill is illegal’: PTI chairman Barrister Gohar

Speaking to reporters, PTI Chairman Barrister Gohar Ali Khan stated that since there was no cabinet meeting to approve the constitutional package, it could not legally be presented in the National Assembly.

“According to Rules 16 and 27 of the Rules of Business, the government has to move the bill through the parliament and ministry of law and then present it to the cabinet,” Gohar said. “If the cabinet approves the bill, it has to be approved by the PM and be presented to parliament.”

“However, there was no cabinet meeting to approve the bill, nor was it on the agenda,” he argued. “The bill therefore cannot be moved; it is illegal and contravenes the Rules of Business and the Constitution.”

The PTI chairman lamented that the opposition had “demanded that the government make legislation in the open,” but they were not doing that.

MNAs being ‘coerced’: PTI’s Asad Qaiser

Earlier this week, senior PTI leader Asad Qaiser accused the government of using strong-arm tactics to bully its opponents into supporting the constitutional package, hours before before police swung into action and took the PTI’s top leadership into custody.

Speaking on a point of order on the floor of the National Assembly on Monday, Qaiser said his party’s lawmakers were being “coerced” to support the government’s legislative package and asked deputy speaker Ghulam Mustafa Shah to intervene.

“We have been receiving complaints from our MNAs. They are constantly receiving threats. They are being coerced to support a legislative package which the government is bringing [to the parliament],” said Mr Qaiser, who had served as the NA speaker during the Imran Khan government.

He also alleged that some opposition members were being lured with different offers.

Number game for votes

While on the face of it, it is still not certain whether the ruling coalition has the numbers required to secure the passage of the constitutional amendment, which requires the assent of at least two-thirds of lawmakers — around 224 votes out of a total of 336 members in the lower house.

But as of now, it appears that the government is short of at least a dozen votes in both houses.

However, if posturing by government spokespersons is anything to go by, the Shehbaz Sharif-led administration seems confident it will be able to secure the required number of votes to have the amendment passed.

Although the officially issued agenda for the NA session does not include any mention of the amendment, experience has shown that such items are usually laid before the house as part of a supplementary agenda.

Despite attempts by opposition parties at enforcing strict discipline among their ranks, it is rumoured that the government had managed to win over some PTI-allied lawmakers who are apparently willing to jump ship to lend their support to the ruling coalition.

The government has also been trying its best to woo JUI-F chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman — a long-time ally of the Sharifs.

If he does indeed lend his support to the “constitutional package”, the government will be in a commanding position in the Senate, but would still be short of around four to five votes in the National Assembly.

After PTI, BNP-M claims lawmakers under pressure to vote for ‘constitutional package’

Mengal says Senator Qasim's house raided, intelligence agencies’ cars patrolling his house; says Nasima Ehsaan's family, husband threatened.

www.dawn.com

 

[BouncerGuy]

Cop among 12 injured in Quetta blast targeting police van

Twelve people were injured in a blast that targeted a police van near Eastern Bypass in Quetta, hospital and government officials said on Wednesday.

Balochistan government spokesman Shahid Rind confirmed in a statement that a police van was targeted while the Balochistan Health Department released a list of 12 individuals who were injured in the incident.

Rind condemned the attack and said a policeman was among the injured.

An investigation into the incident was launched and the bomb disposal squad teams were collecting evidence, the spokesperson added.

The health department’s statement, issued by its media coordinator Dr Waseem Baig, said the injured had been shifted to Quetta Trauma Centre for further treatment after they were provided with initial medical aid in Civil Hospital’s emergency department.

DAWN NEWS

 

[hassan918]

Seven labourers killed by gunmen in Pakistan's southern Balochistan​

QUETTA, Sept 29 (Reuters) - Gunmen killed seven workers in Pakistan's southwestern province of Balochistan late on Saturday, police said.

Armed men stormed a residence where labourers from eastern Punjab province were staying and opened fire with automatic weapons, police said. No one has claimed responsibility.

"Seven labourers have been gunned down by unknown armed men ... in Khuda-i-Abadan area of Panjgur town," Senior Superintendent of Police in Panjgur, Syed Fazil Shah told Reuters, adding one other labourer was injured.

Source: Reuters

 

[Cricket Warrior]

Dr Mahrang Baloch named in Times '100 Most Influential People of 2024' list

Dr Mahrang Baloch, a human rights activist and leader of Baloch Yakjehti Committee (BYC), has been honoured in Time magazine's prestigious list of the 100 most influential people of 2024.

“TIME100 Next list was created to recognise that many of today’s most influential leaders are individuals who are not waiting long in life to make an impact,” the magazine said on Wednesday. The list includes leaders, innovators, advocates and artists.

Mahrang was selected for “advocating peacefully” for Baloch rights and leading the December 2023 march to Islamabad, where hundreds of women sought “justice for their husbands, sons, and brothers”.

The 31-year-old doctor took to her official Facebook account to share a post with a picture of magazine featuring herself and announce that she has made it to TIME Magazine's "100 most influential people of 2024" list.

“I am deeply honored and delighted to be named among the top 100 emerging leaders of the world by TIME,” she wrote on a Facebook post after receiving the recognition.

Dr Mahrang Baloch named in Times '100 Most Influential People of 2024' list

Dr Mahrang Baloch, a human rights activist and leader of Baloch Yakjehti Committee , has been honoured in Time magazine's prestigious list of the 100 most influential people of 2024.“TIME100 Next list was created to recognise that...

www.geo.tv

 

[BouncerGuy]

Armed attackers kill 20 coal miners in southwest Pakistan

Armed assailants have killed 20 miners and injured another seven at a small private coal mine in southwest Pakistan, police said, raising security concerns just days before a major international summit is set to be held in the country.

The attackers broke into the miners’ quarters in Dukki district in Pakistan’s restive Balochistan province on Thursday night, gathered the workers together and opened fire, local police official Hamayun Khan Nasir said on Friday.

“A group of armed men attacked the Junaid Coal company mines in the [Dukki] area in the [early] hours using heavy weapons,” he said, adding the attackers fired rockets and grenades at the mines as well.

Most of the victims were from Pashtun-speaking regions within Balochistan, according to Nasir. Three of the deceased and four of the injured were Afghan nationals.

No group has immediately taken responsibility for the assault.

Balochistan is a hotbed of armed movements, with the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) most prominent among them. They accuse the central government in Islamabad of exploiting the province’s rich oil and mineral resources to the detriment of the local population in the country’s largest and least-populated province, which borders Iran and Afghanistan.

On Monday, the BLA – designated a terrorist group by Pakistan, the United Kingdom and the United States – claimed responsibility for an attack targeting Chinese nationals near Pakistan’s largest airport.

The Chinese embassy in Pakistan said at least two of its citizens were killed and a third injured after their convoy was targeted with an improvised explosive device believed to have been detonated by a suicide bomber.

Local media reports suggest at least 10 people were injured in total, with four cars destroyed in the explosion and 10 more vehicles damaged in the resulting fire.

Thousands of Chinese nationals work in Pakistan, many of them involved in Beijing’s multibillion-dollar infrastructure project the Belt and Road Initiative.

Despite China’s repeated requests for Pakistan to bolster security, there has been a surge in attacks and unrest surrounding key Belt and Road infrastructure projects in the country.

The attack has raised concern about the ability of Pakistani security forces to safeguard high-profile events and foreign nationals in advance of next week’s Shanghai Cooperation Organisation Heads of Government summit, which is set to meet in Islamabad on October 15 and 16.

ALJAZEERA

 

[Cricket Warrior]

Mahrang seeks removal of name from no-fly list

The Islamabad High Court (IHC) on Thursday issued notices to the Ministry of Interior and the Director General of Immigration and Passports in a petition filed by the leader of Baloch Solidarity Committee Dr Mahrang Baloch seeking removal of her name from the no-fly list.

IHC Chief Justice Aamer Farooq took up the petition and after preliminary hearing directed the Ministry of Interior to submit the response by the next date of hearing.

Mahrang Baloch, who appeared in court alongside her counsel Imaan Mazari, stated that she was prevented from boarding an international flight at Jinnah International Airport in Karachi on October 7.

Advocate Mazari informed the court that Baloch was stopped from travelling without prior notice, raising concerns about her inclusion on the no-fly list.

During the hearing, Chief Justice Farooq inquired why the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) was made a party to the case, to which Mazari responded that they had been informed the agencies were involved in managing the no-fly list.

The Chief Justice advised the counsel to concentrate on the authorities concerned instead.


Dawn News