BNP-M leader Agha Hassan Baloch has declared a series of protests across Balochistan, beginning with a province-wide shutter-down strike on October 30. This protest will be followed by a wheel-jam on Pakistan’s national highways on November 2. Baloch emphasized that the BNP’s demonstrations would remain peaceful, aiming to protest the discrimination and injustices reportedly faced by the people of Balochistan.
During a press conference, Baloch criticized the government’s decision to file terrorism-related FIRs against several BNP leaders, including Sardar Akhtar Mengal, Akhtar Hussain Langove, and Ahmed Nawaz Baloch. “Is holding a press conference or raising concerns considered terrorism?” he questioned, criticizing the government for equating freedom of expression with terrorism.
Baloch highlighted issues such as the alleged placement of thousands of Baloch youth on Pakistan’s Fourth Schedule, as well as the ongoing denial of ID cards and SIM cards. This, he argued, has led to unrest among Baloch citizens. He also expressed disappointment over what he called “the worst” governance in the region, fueling dissatisfaction among residents.
Amidst growing tension, an Anti-Terrorism Court granted a five-day physical remand for BNP-M leaders Akhtar Hussain Langove and Shafi Muhammad, following a riot case at Parliament House. Defence Attorney Iman Mazari argued the case was politically motivated, while Prosecutor Raja Navaid cited the need for further investigation, requesting a 25-day remand.
