Quetta: Mobile internet services in Quetta have once again been suspended, coinciding with ongoing protests by the Baloch Yakjehti Committee (BYC) against the arrest of their leaders, including Dr. Mahrang Baloch.
The internet suspension began on Thursday evening, but authorities have not provided an official reason for the disruption. This is not the first time internet services have been suspended during BYC protests. Previously, during demonstrations, mobile internet was shut down but was restored on the evening of March 23. The latest suspension has caused inconvenience to the residents of Quetta.
Meanwhile, protests continue against the arrest of Dr. Mahrang Baloch and other BYC leaders and activists. Demonstrations are being held in various parts of Balochistan, organized by BYC, while the Balochistan National Party (BNP) has launched a long march from Wadh, Khuzdar, to Quetta. Several political and religious parties have expressed their support for the march.
BNP Chief Sardar Akhtar Mengal, in a video statement, warned that if the detained BYC leaders and activists are not released, the long march will turn into a sit-in protest.
However, the Balochistan government’s spokesperson, Shahid Rind, stated that protests on major roads are not allowed under Section 144, and BNP must seek permission from the administration for demonstrations.
In response to the protests, security measures have been tightened in Quetta. On Thursday, all roads leading to the Quetta Press Club were sealed off, making it difficult for journalists to access the area.
On Wednesday, BYC was unable to hold protests in Quetta due to police arrests and shelling. On Thursday, ahead of BYC’s planned protest outside the Press Club, authorities completely sealed off the surrounding roads, including Jinnah Road.
The restrictions also affected political activities. The Jamaat-e-Islami (JI) had scheduled a press conference at the Quetta Press Club on Thursday, but police reportedly prevented several JI leaders from reaching the venue. Speaking at the Press Club, JI Balochistan leader Zahid Akhtar condemned the government’s actions, stating that Balochistan has been turned into a prison where even peaceful protests are not allowed.
Additionally, BYC leader Dr. Sabiha Baloch reported that two female BYC activists were arrested from Hub.
