Editorial:Â
The police raid on Quetta Press Club and the arrest of 32 SBK Testing Service candidates expose not just the government’s failure in job appointments but also a brazen attack on press freedom. The incident, condemned by journalists and civil society, raises serious concerns about the government’s handling of recruitment processes and its response to peaceful protests.
Why Were the Candidates Arrested?
For over two years, thousands of qualified candidates have been demanding appointment letters for education department vacancies after passing tests conducted by Sardar Bahadur Khan Women’s University (SBK). Despite the Supreme Court’s ruling in their favor, the provincial government refuses to issue the orders, citing irregularities in the selection process. Meanwhile, police arrested these candidates under Section 144, claiming they were interfering in official duties—a clear attempt to silence dissent.
Government’s Inaction and Contradictions
The government’s response to the issue has been contradictory and deeply flawed. Chief Minister Mir Sarfaraz Bugti has acknowledged irregularities in the SBK recruitment process, even claiming that jobs were sold. However, if there was corruption, why are candidates—who merely followed the recruitment process—being punished while those responsible for alleged fraud remain untouched? The Supreme Court has already ruled in favor of the candidates, so why is the government refusing to implement the verdict?
The Real Culprits: Who Should Be Held Accountable?
Instead of arresting teachers and violating the sanctity of the press club, authorities should hold the SBK and education department accountable for any irregularities. If corruption occurred, those who sold the jobs—not the candidates—should face punishment. The government’s failure to properly conduct the recruitment process has already caused a two-year delay, leaving schools understaffed while thousands of qualified candidates remain jobless.
Silencing Dissent and Attacking Press Freedom
Beyond the job crisis, the police’s actions also strike at press freedom. The Quetta Press Club, a symbol of free speech, was stormed by law enforcement simply because candidates wanted to hold a press conference. This heavy-handed response raises a critical question: Is the government more interested in covering up its failures than addressing the grievances of its people?
The Way Forward: Government Must Act
The solution is clear:
1. Immediate release of arrested candidates – These individuals are victims of a flawed system, not criminals.
2. Issuance of appointment orders – The Supreme Court has ruled in favor of the candidates, and any further delay is unjustifiable.
3. Action against corruption – If jobs were sold, the government must expose and punish those involved, not punish innocent candidates.
4. Respect for press freedom – The attack on the Quetta Press Club must be condemned, and responsible officials should be held accountable.
This incident is a glaring example of a failed governance model that punishes job seekers instead of fixing systemic corruption. The government must correct its course—before public outrage escalates further.
