Mobile internet suspended in various districts of Balochistan

PTI had scheduled a rally which the govt took as security concern and blocked many areas

Mobile internet services were suspended in various districts of Balochistan due to ‘security concerns’. The affected districts included Quetta, Mastung, Pishin, Killa Abdullah, Chaman, Killa Saifullah, Zhob, Loralai, Harnai, and Ziarat. The suspension remained in effect until 9pm on Friday, creating significant hardships for people, particularly the students, as well as businesses who depend on internet for daily operations.

The Balochistan Home Department stated that the decision to suspend mobile internet services was made to ensure public safety and maintain order during the ongoing security operations. Authorities emphasised that the action was necessary to protect the people.

Read More: Bugti unveils police reforms, merit hiring in Balochistan

In a related development, leaders of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) in Balochistan announced the cancellation of their planned rally in Quetta, citing similar concerns regarding safety, peace, and the avoidance of potential disturbances. PTI leaders stated that the party believes in democratic values and is committed to non-violent activities.

At a press briefing, PTI Balochistan leaders including Provincial President Dawood Shah, Provincial General Secretary Jahangir Rind, as well as senior members including Noor Khan Khilji, Zainul Abidin Khilji, Jan Baloch, Nawab Domer, Ishaq Tareen, and district leaders, explained the reason behind the cancellation of the rally.

They clarified that despite securing all necessary approvals from the District Commissioner, the Home Department, and the High Court, the government authorities interfered with their event. On the day of the rally, water was released onto the event grounds, the city was heavily barricaded, and internet services were suspended.

Also Read: HEC postpones law admission test in Balochistan

Shah strongly criticised the government's actions, calling them an attempt to block PTI’s constitutional right to hold a peaceful demonstration. "The city wore a deserted look and it appeared as the city was under lockdown, which is a blatant infringement on democratic freedoms," he remarked. "This is a clear effort to prevent our lawful gathering."

Despite the cancellation, PTI leaders assured their supporters that the decision was made in the interest of public security and to preserve peace. They confirmed that a new date for the rally would be announced shortly. "Our primary focus is on ensuring the safety, peace, and well-being of general puiblic and our supporters. While today's rally has been postponed, our commitment to our cause remains unwavering, and we will continue to advocate for the rights of the people of Balochistan," Shah stated.