By News Desk: The standoff between the Balochistan government and protesting employees intensified on Thursday as 49 members of the Balochistan Grand Alliance (BGA), arrested during demonstrations outside the Balochistan Assembly, were transferred to District Jail Quetta.
The employees were detained a day earlier during protests held alongside the provincial budget session. The Balochistan Grand Alliance had organized a rally to press the government to accept its demands, including the implementation of the Disparity Reduction Allowance (DRA) and other service-related benefits for government employees.
According to reports, protesters attempted to march toward the Balochistan Assembly and stage a demonstration outside the assembly premises. Police moved to stop the rally, resulting in a tense confrontation between law enforcement personnel and the protesters.
Authorities used tear gas to disperse the crowd, while dozens of employees were taken into custody during the operation. Of those detained, 49 workers have now been shifted to District Jail Quetta.
The arrests have sparked strong reactions among government employees and labor representatives, who have termed the police action excessive and demanded the immediate release of all detained workers. The Grand Alliance has reiterated its commitment to continue its protest movement until its demands are addressed.
The ongoing dispute has emerged as a major challenge for the provincial administration, particularly at a time when the Balochistan government is focusing on the implementation of the newly announced budget for the fiscal year 2026-27.
