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GWADAR/QUETTA – A protester’s death in Noshki has reignited conflict between Pakistani authorities and the Baloch Yakjehti Committee (BYC), leading to widespread unrest across Balochistan.
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On Saturday, demonstrations, roadblocks, and sit-ins disrupted daily life throughout the province. Both the BYC and government officials traded accusations of violating a recently negotiated agreement aimed at ending the protests.
The situation intensified after BYC alleged that security forces killed one of their supporters, Hamden Baloch, and injured two others near Noshki’s railway station. The group claims security personnel opened fire on a peaceful procession.
Noshki Deputy Commissioner Amjad Hussian Soomro confirmed one fatality but stated that protesters had clashed with security forces, resulting in the casualty.
In anticipation of further unrest, Quetta’s district administration blocked access to the red zone and increased security presence. Similar disruptions occurred across Balochistan, with BYC supporters staging sit-ins and blocking major highways, including the Quetta-Taftan national highway. This has impacted Pakistan-Iran trade and halted bus and truck services between Quetta and Karachi.
Protests and roadblocks were reported in multiple cities, including Mastung, Kalat, Khuzdar, Lasbela, and Hub. Key roads in Quetta, such as University Chowk and Hazar Ganji Eastern Bypass, remained closed, causing significant inconvenience to residents.
While strikes persisted in several districts, businesses reopened in Gwadar. However, internet and cellular services remain suspended in the area. The prolonged unrest has led to food shortages and price hikes in the port city.
Government officials claim that negotiations with BYC leaders, including Dr. Mahrang Baloch, resulted in an agreement to end the sit-ins. They stated that over 80 arrested BYC supporters were released, with others to be freed by August 5 after legal proceedings.
Dr. Baloch disputed this account, asserting that many supporters arrested during the Baloch Raji Muchi gathering in Gwadar remain in custody. BYC leaders insist the sit-in will continue until all detained supporters are released.
Fresh negotiations have begun in Gwadar, with local officials and political leaders engaging in talks with protesters to resolve the ongoing crisis.
