Manan Mandokhail:
Quetta: The Balochistan government has implemented Section 144 across the province to address the ongoing protests disrupting national highways, government spokesperson Shahid Rind announced during a press conference on Monday.
Protests erupted yesterday, leading to the closure of several national highways. Spokesman Shahid Rind emphasized that while peaceful protests are a democratic right, blocking vital routes will not be tolerated. “The provincial government allows review protests, but it will not permit anyone to block national highways,” Rind stated.
Chief Minister Mir Sarfaraz Bugti has taken notice of the highway closures and directed authorities to ensure the restoration of traffic. Meanwhile, the Grand Health Alliance has assured compliance with the High Court’s orders concerning their protests.
Rind also dismissed rumors of hospital privatization, reaffirming the government’s commitment to public health services. He noted that past protests have played a role in the recovery of missing persons, highlighting the government’s responsiveness to such demonstrations.
Protests are currently ongoing at three locations in Balochistan, with officials working to resolve the situation swiftly. The government urges citizens to cooperate and avoid disrupting public life.