Qaseem Shah:
QUETTA — The Judicial Inquiry Commission probing the Mangi Dam attack held an open court hearing on Thursday, presided over by Justice Aamir Nawaz Rana, hearing testimonies from multiple key witnesses, senior officials, and victims’ families.
Warning Ignored Prior to Attack, Claims Ex-Lawmaker
Former Balochistan Provincial Assembly member Nasrullah Khan Zayrai appeared before the commission and delivered a critical statement regarding pre-attack intelligence warnings.
Zayrai testified that he had personally alerted the Chief Minister and Chief Secretary of Balochistan on July 6 regarding the presence of terrorists in the Mangi area. He added that authorities were also informed after police personnel were taken hostage by militants, yet no timely security action was initiated despite explicit requests.
Commission Expresses Anger Over PTA’s Lack of Action
The proceedings saw sharp criticism aimed at the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA). A senior official from PTA’s Web Analysis Division in Islamabad joined the hearing via video link but failed to provide satisfactory details regarding suo motu legal measures taken against fake and misleading social media coverage surrounding the incident.
Expressing strong displeasure over the vague responses, Justice Rana ordered the Director of the Web Analysis Division to appear in person at the next hearing and submit comprehensive records on automated social media monitoring and enforcement actions.
Update on Martyrs’ Compensation Package
The Additional Secretary Home updated the commission on financial support for the victims’ families, confirming that a summary proposing an increase in the Martyrs’ Compensation Package has been forwarded to the Chief Minister of Balochistan for formal approval. A official notification will be issued following provincial cabinet clearance.
A representative from the Finance Department assured the court that the martyrs’ compensation amount remains entirely exempt from tax deductions.
Urgent Action Ordered on Widow’s Extortion Complaint
In a heartbreaking turn, the widow of a martyr testified before the commission, revealing that she had faced threats and attempts by individuals seeking to extort her compensation money. She confirmed submitting a written complaint to the Inspector General (IG) of Police Complaint Cell.
Taking immediate notice, the commission directed the IG Police Balochistan to initiate prompt legal action against those involved and present a full compliance report at the upcoming hearing.
Further proceedings of the inquiry commission have been adjourned until the next scheduled date.
