Sardar Muhammad Khondai, Ayub Bhutto, News Desk:
Normal life came to a standstill across Quetta and several parts of Balochistan on Sunday as a shutter-down and wheel-jam strike was observed amid heavy police deployment, arrests, and widespread road closures.
Major markets, shops, and commercial centers in Quetta remained completely closed, while traffic on key arteries and highways was suspended due to blockades set up by protesters. Public transport was off the roads, leaving commuters stranded and daily life severely disrupted.
The strike was called by the Pakistan Constitution Protection Movement, also known as Tehreek-e-Tahaffuz-e-Aain Pakistan (TTAP), in protest against what it described as the alleged rigging in the February 8, 2024 general elections. Supporters of various component parties of the movement staged demonstrations at multiple locations, blocking highways and main roads leading into and out of Quetta.
Police were deployed at sensitive points across the provincial capital and other districts to maintain law and order. Several protesters were reportedly arrested during clashes with law enforcement agencies, further escalating tensions.
The ongoing protests have disrupted business activities, educational institutions, and essential services, adding to public inconvenience. Authorities have urged protesters to remain peaceful while warning against any attempts to disturb public order.
