BYC holds rally amid internet, mobile blackout

QUETTA:

The Baloch Yakjehti Committee (BYC) organized a large rally in Dalbandin, Balochistan, on Saturday in support of its demands.

The provincial government had imposed Section 144 in the province, sparking concerns among the organizers about possible crackdown against the event.

The Balochistan government spokesman, Shahid Rind, told The Express Tribune via telephone that while the right to assemble is constitutionally guaranteed, the rally was conducted despite restrictions in place under Section 144 which prohibit rallies.

He noted that local authorities are responsible for granting or denying permissions for such gatherings.

"Mobile networks have been suspended in Dalbandin to maintain security and prevent any unfortunate terrorism incident," Rind explained.

BYC organizer Beeburg Baloch expressed frustration over the communication blackout, stating, "Mobile services have been shut down in Dalbandin, Chagai, and Noshki for three days. Today, there is no mobile coverage in Dalbandin, and we have lost contact with convoys coming from Noshki, which also seems disconnected."

During the rally, BYC leader Dr. Mahrang Baloch addressed the crowd, strongly criticizing what she called exploitation of Balochistan's resources.