Syed Ali Shah:
Quetta – A province-wide wheel jam strike was observed in Balochistan on Wednesday, following a call by Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam (Fazl) (JUI-F) to protest what it described as “engineered and rigged elections” in PB-45 Quetta Sadar.
The protest disrupted major highways, including the Karachi Highway, Chaman Highway at Syed Hamid Cross, and the Quetta-Islamabad Highway, as JUI-F supporters blocked roads to demand the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) halt the notification of Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) candidate Ali Madad Jattak’s victory.
JUI-F Balochistan chief Maulana Abdul Wasay criticized the election results, stating, “We will not accept the manipulated election results of PB-45. JUI-F will continue its political and legal battle to achieve justice.” He also added, “Our peaceful protest aims to highlight the unfair practices that undermine democracy in the province.”
Passengers Face Severe Inconvenience
The strike caused immense difficulties for passengers, especially women, children, elderly individuals, and patients, who were stranded for hours. Long queues of vehicles were seen on blocked highways, leaving travelers frustrated and helpless. Abdul Hameed, a resident of Chaman, expressed his frustration, saying, “I have been waiting for hours to reach Quetta for a hospital appointment, but the strike has brought everything to a halt.” Similarly, Noor Bibi, traveling from Karachi to Quetta, stated, “These strikes only create problems for ordinary people like us.”
No Untoward Incidents Reported
Despite the widespread roadblocks, the strike concluded without any violent incidents. Authorities ensured that the protests remained peaceful throughout the day.
The JUI-F has vowed to continue its protest until the ECP reviews its decision, keeping the political temperature high in the province.
