Quetta:
The provincial government of Balutchistan has advised the BNP to limit its protest today at the Shahwani stadium in Quetta, warning that strict legal proceedings will be taken against any violation of the law, if the party supporters walk in the red zone of the provincial capital.
Sardar Akhtar Mengal, who personally directs the long BNP march, promised to join Quetta on April 6 (Sunday) to protest against the alleged disappearances imposed by political workers (BYC), including Dr. Mahrang Baloch.
Addressing a press conference before the planned demonstration, the spokesman for the Balutchistan government, Shahid Rind, said on Friday that strict judicial measures would be taken against any violation of the law.
“The government shows a deduction, but any attempt to violate article 144 or to cause unrest will be greeted by a firm response,” said Rind.
He accused the head of the BNP Mengal and the senior leader of Dr Sabeen of having made speeches “against the State” and confirmed that the legal proceedings would be initiated on such remarks.
Rind revealed that two cycles of talks had taken place with the management of the BNP, during which they were asked to hold their protest at the Shahwani stadium. However, the party refused, insisting on walking in the red zone of Quetta, which the government said prohibited.
“The BNP-M has placed three major requests, including the release of Mahrang Baloch,” he said.
Rind rejected speculation on the alleged government’s negotiations with the BYC, declaring that no official meeting between the government and Dr. Mahrang Baloch had occurred in prison. “Everyone knows what BYC is,” he added.
He said the provincial government is expecting a detailed verdict from the Balutchistan High Court on the issue of Afghan refugees and continues to consult the political parties to ensure law and order.
The BNP march, which has grown in various districts, continues despite the government’s repeated warnings and attempts to negotiate.
