JUI-F warns Balochistan govt over seminary bill

Religious party threatens of province-wide protests if legislation not passed by May 5

QUETTA:

The Provincial Chief of Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam Fazl (JUI-F), Senator Maulana Abdul Wasay, issued a warning to the Balochistan government, declaring that any attempt to interfere with religious seminaries would not be tolerated.

Speaking at a press conference in Quetta, Maulana Abdul Wasay announced the expiry of a previously issued ultimatum, stating that if the Madaris Bill is not passed during the Balochistan Assembly session on May 5, province-wide protests will be held on May 6.

"The matter of seminaries is a red line for us," Maulana Abdul Wasay asserted. "We cannot allow anyone to lay hands on madaris under any circumstances. The Balochistan government must immediately withdraw the current notification regarding seminaries."

He revealed that the government had been given an ultimatum until May 2, which it chose to ignore. Accusing the Chief Minister of Balochistan of violating the Constitution, the JUI leader demanded accountability. "The Chief Minister must come to his senses. He has violated the Constitution. A mere apology will not suffice."

Maulana Abdul Wasay pointed out that the National Assembly has already passed the Madaris Act under the 26th Constitutional Amendment, and it is now the provinces' responsibility to implement it. He alleged that the government has initiated actions against seminaries, which constitutes a constitutional violation.

He further accused the government of continuing land allotments under the Mines and Minerals Act despite its withdrawal, calling it a daylight robbery of public rights.

The JUI-F leader detailed that negotiations were held with a three-member government delegation comprising ministers. While the delegation requested postponing the protest until the Chief Minister's return, JUI-F central advisory council categorically rejected the government's proposals.

"We have made it clear that the Madaris Bill must be included on the agenda of the May 5 Balochistan Assembly session," he said. "If the bill is passed, we will transform our protest into a day of gratitude. Otherwise, on May 6, there will be protest across the province."

Maulana Abdul Wasay announced that on May 10, JUI-F caravans from across the province will march toward Quetta, while a major public gathering will be held in Pishin on June 4.

The JUI-F leader emphasised that their protest would be entirely peaceful. "We will not damage any property. However, the government must respect public sentiments and take immediate positive action on the seminary issue."