Leading the BNP’s long march, Sardar Akhtar Mengal had promised to arrive in Quetta on Sunday, April 6, to voice opposition to the arrest of Dr. Mahrang Baloch and other leaders of the Baloch Yakjehti Committee (BYC) and the purported enforced disappearances of political activists in Balochistan.
The provincial government claims that after two rounds of discussions with BNP leadership, they were asked to stage their demonstration at Shahwani Stadium in Quetta. However, the group refused, insisting on marching to the red zone of the city.
Speaking at a press conference before Saturday’s planned protest, Balochistan government spokesperson Shahid Rind warned that any law violation would be strictly prosecuted.
“The government is showing restraint, but any attempt to breach Section 144 or provoke unrest will be met with a firm response,” Rind had stated.
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Blocking the Highway
Rind threatened to arrest BNP chief Sardar Akhtar Mengal if he tried to visit Quetta on Sunday, on X.
“At six in the morning, the administration told Mengal about the Maintenance of Public Order (MPO) orders, but he refused to turn himself in. They will be arrested if he enters Quetta,” Rind said, adding that police had been sent in to maintain peace.
The party’s proposal to block national roadways was also denounced by the administration, which said it was an effort to interfere with everyday life and worsen hardship for the populace. According to Shahid Rind, all district administrations have received clear orders that no highway may be closed.
Meanwhile Balochistan residents are concerned about the possible livelihood and travel disruption following the highway blockage.
In a previous post on X, Mengal said that security forces were encircling him and his allies near Lak Pass and that a significant operation appeared to be on the horizon.
In response, the BNP responded by calling for protests throughout the region, claiming that its leaders and employees were being targeted by the current administration.
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