Syed Ali Shah:
QUETTA: Authorities in Quetta barred Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) from holding a public gathering, citing security and traffic concerns. On Sunday, PTI supporters assembled on Zarghoon Road, attempting to march to the rally site but were intercepted by police forces committed to maintaining order.
The district administration had previously refused permission for the gathering, warning that it could lead to significant traffic disruptions and safety risks. However, PTI supporters pressed forward, resulting in confrontations with law enforcement. Police used tear gas to disperse the crowd, while PTI activists responded by throwing stones, leading to rising tensions.
Baton-armed officers were deployed around the city’s red zone to prevent any breaches by demonstrators. PTI supporters staged protests near Hockey Chowk and Koala Phatak, venting frustration over the administration’s decision to block their gathering.
Dawood Shah Kakar, PTI’s Balochistan Chief, voiced his discontent, asserting, “We have a democratic right to hold a peaceful assembly. We call on the administration to uphold our right to gather.”
The district administration remained firm, with an official spokesperson stating, “The current law and order situation, coupled with heavy traffic congestion, prevents us from allowing this event as it could endanger public safety and affect commuters.”
The protests resulted in major traffic delays across Quetta, affecting daily commuters who expressed frustration over the disruptions caused by the political unrest. Authorities are closely monitoring the situation to prevent any further escalation.
