QUETTA: In a significant crackdown on Wednesday, authorities arrested 49 employees affiliated with the Balochistan Grand Alliance (BGA) and subsequently transferred them to District Jail Quetta, following a violent protest near the Balochistan Assembly.
The protests erupted during the provincial budget session, as BGA workers took to the streets to voice their demands, primarily focusing on the Disparity Reduction Allowance (DRA) and other service-related grievances. The demonstrators attempted to march toward the Balochistan Assembly premises to intensify their rally, prompting a swift response from law enforcement.
Police personnel deployed in large numbers used tear gas to disperse the advancing crowd when protesters breached security barriers in an effort to approach the assembly building. The clash resulted in dozens of employees being taken into custody during the operation.
After being detained, all 49 arrested individuals were shifted to District Jail Quetta, where they are currently being held. Officials have not yet disclosed whether formal charges have been filed against the detainees.
The Balochistan Grand Alliance has yet to issue an official statement regarding the arrests, while political observers anticipate further demonstrations if the government fails to address the employees’ demands. The provincial administration has urged calm and reiterated its commitment to maintaining public order during the ongoing budget session.
