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Shutter-Down Strike Across Balochistan Over BNP-M Protest
Balochistan cities observed a shutter-down strike as BNP-M’s sit-in in Mastung entered day 11. The protest, led by Akhtar Mengal, demands release of BYC activists. Tensions rise amid crackdown warnings.
ND
by News Desk
2025-04-07
Shutter-Down Strike Across Balochistan Over BNP-M Protest

Cities across Balochistan observed a complete shutter-down strike on Monday in response to a call from the Balochistan National Party-Mengal (BNP-M), as the party’s sit-in protest at Lakpass near Mastung reached its 11th consecutive day.

The BNP-M launched a long march from Wadh to Quetta on March 28 to protest the arrests of Baloch Yakjehti Committee (BYC) leaders and activists, including Mahrang Baloch and Sammi Deen Baloch. The crackdown on the BYC’s protest camp in Quetta triggered widespread anger among supporters. Although Sammi was released last Tuesday, the BNP-M’s sit-in continues as their broader demands remain unmet.

BNP-M chief Sardar Akhtar Mengal had announced the march toward Quetta would take place on April 6, following failed negotiations with the provincial authorities. However, on Sunday, security forces used tear gas and shelling to stop protesters from entering the provincial capital, intensifying tensions.

The Balochistan government, through spokesperson Shahid Rind, warned that Mengal would be arrested under the Maintenance of Public Order (MPO) if the march proceeded into Quetta. “Mengal will be arrested if he moves towards Quetta,” Rind stated.

Cities Go Silent in Solidarity

The call for strike received a strong response in major towns and cities including Gwadar, Turbat, Pasni, Panjgur, Khuzdar, Kharan, Mastung, Kalat, Dalbandin, Noshki, Sorab, and Hub. Commercial areas, banks, and public transport largely remained shut, as local traders and residents showed solidarity with the BNP-M’s stance.

BNP leader Quddus Baloch told media that two government delegations visited for dialogue, but negotiations stalled due to the teams’ lack of authority to make commitments. He also expressed concern over the protest’s location, noting Mastung’s reputation as a stronghold for extremist elements, posing serious security risks to protesters.

Political Fallout and Ongoing Crackdown

The BNP-M’s campaign has underscored growing unrest in Balochistan, where enforced disappearances, arrests of rights activists, and the heavy-handed response to peaceful demonstrations have led to mounting criticism from human rights organisations.

This latest round of protests adds to an increasingly tense political landscape in the province, with opposition parties and civil society groups calling for de-escalation, dialogue, and protection of civil liberties.

As of now, the sit-in at Lakpass continues, with protestors standing firm on their demands, and the provincial administration facing mounting pressure to resolve the issue without further escalation.

 
Tagged:

AkhtarMengal

BNPM

BYC

BalochistanProtest

MastungSitIn
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