News Desk
QUETTA: Balochistan Assembly Speaker Captain (retd) Abdul Khaliq Khan Achakzai has directed police officials to ensure transparent investigations into the cases of Asma Jattak and Laiba Sattar, arrest the nominated suspects in accordance with the law, and provide effective security to the affected families.
The directions were issued during a meeting chaired by the speaker at his chamber in the Balochistan Assembly. Provincial Assembly members Ali Madad Jattak, Mir Jan Muhammad Mengal, Mir Zafarullah Khan Zehri, Balochistan Assembly Secretary Tahir Shah Kakar and Assistant Inspector General of Police Asif Khan attended the meeting.
The meeting reviewed the progress of investigations into the two cases, the security concerns of the victims’ families and the reported failure to arrest the suspects.
Under a ruling issued by the speaker, the Deputy Inspector General (DIG) of Police, Khuzdar Range, had been summoned to explain the progress of the investigations and the measures taken to protect the affected families. However, the speaker expressed concern over the DIG’s absence and the appearance of the AIG instead, saying the matter raised concerns regarding the privileges of the provincial assembly.
Addressing the meeting, Achakzai said the repeated discussion of such incidents in the assembly was a matter of serious concern. He stressed that the police were responsible for protecting the public and ensuring the safety of citizens’ lives and property.
“You are our protectors. If you cannot provide us with security, what can we say in this regard?” the speaker remarked, underscoring the need for effective policing and accountability.
During the briefing, AIG Asif Khan informed the meeting that security had been provided to Asma Jattak and her family. The speaker, however, questioned whether the security arrangements adequately addressed the concerns of all affected family members.
He emphasised that protection should not be limited to formal assurances but must involve practical measures capable of restoring the confidence of victims and their families.
Police officials informed the meeting that investigations into both cases were ongoing and that different aspects of the incidents were being examined.
The speaker directed the police to complete the investigations in a transparent, impartial and effective manner, take lawful action against the suspects nominated in the cases, and ensure comprehensive security for the affected families.
Achakzai further stressed that upholding the rule of law and safeguarding citizens fundamental rights were among the primary responsibilities of state institutions. He warned that delays and a lack of progress in sensitive cases could deepen public insecurity and called for concrete steps to ensure justice and protect those affected.
The speaker’s directions come amid concerns over investigative progress and the security of families involved in the two cases.
