Maps
Magazine

CRIME

Sardar Akhtar Mengal Survives Suicide Blast at BNP-M Rally
BNP-M leader Sardar Akhtar Mengal escapes unhurt as a suicide blast hits near his rally in Mastung. He alleges state suppression and vows to continue the protest for missing persons and detained activists.
ND
by News Desk
2025-03-29
Sardar Akhtar Mengal Survives Suicide Blast at BNP-M Rally

BNP-M chief Sardar Akhtar Mengal and his party workers narrowly escaped a suicide bombing near their rally in Mastung on Saturday. While no casualties were reported in the initial official statements, Mengal later claimed that four rally participants sustained injuries.

Mengal’s march was part of a larger protest against the arrests of Baloch Yakjehti Committee (BYC) leader Dr. Mahrang Baloch and other activists, along with alleged police crackdowns on sit-ins. However, authorities in Quetta had denied BNP-M permission to proceed with the rally.

Blast Near BNP-M Rally

According to officials, the explosion occurred when Levies personnel at Luck Pass spotted a suspicious individual. When they attempted to stop him, he fled, detonating his explosives upon being pursued. Mastung Assistant Commissioner Akram Harifal confirmed the blast but stated that no other casualties occurred.

Despite this, Mengal, addressing supporters later, claimed that his rally was the target. He alleged, “We have no threat from any group. If we have any threat, it is from the state.” He further accused the government of trying to worsen the situation but vowed that his protest would remain peaceful.

Crackdown on BNP-M Protesters

The BNP-M reported that over 250 of its workers had been detained, with security forces allegedly using tear gas and firing live rounds to disperse protesters near Mastung’s Luck Pass. Party members also shared videos of roadblocks and containers set up to prevent their march from entering Quetta.

Mengal, in a social media post, criticized the authorities, stating that the government was afraid of peaceful demonstrators. “Those who make grand claims of democracy should reflect on today. The state has once again given the message to the youth to abandon peaceful methods and choose another path,” he warned.

He demanded the release of detained activists, particularly women, stating, “I am ready to give my arrest in return for the release of women.”

Authorities Warn of Legal Consequences

The Quetta administration justified blocking the BNP-M march, citing security threats and an ongoing three-month ban on large gatherings imposed by the provincial government. A letter from the deputy commissioner of Quetta stated that BNP-M’s request for a rally was denied and warned that legal action would be taken if they proceeded.

Despite the crackdown, BNP-M supporters vowed to continue their protest. Mengal urged the people of Mastung and Quetta to support the march, emphasizing that they would not be intimidated. “We are strong and committed to our cause, and above all, we are peaceful,” he declared.

The incident has once again highlighted tensions in Balochistan, where protests over enforced disappearances and human rights violations continue to challenge state authorities.
Tagged:

Balochistan

HumanRights

AkhtarMengal

BNPM
Share News: