Quetta – The Balochistan government has announced an immediate and complete ban on the transport, sale, and purchase of poppy seeds (khaskhas) across the province.
According to a notification issued by the provincial Home Department, the decision was taken in view of concerns that the trade and movement of poppy seeds could encourage the illegal cultivation of opium poppy, which is a key source of narcotics.
The statement further highlighted that such activities not only pose a serious threat to public order and safety but also contribute to the spread of the drug menace within society.
The ban has been enforced under Section 144 of the Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC) and will remain in place until further orders.
Authorities have been directed to ensure strict compliance across the province.
Balochistan has historically faced challenges with the cultivation of opium poppy due to its vast and hard-to-monitor terrain.
Although Pakistan successfully reduced large-scale poppy cultivation during the 1990s through strong enforcement and international cooperation, recent years have witnessed sporadic attempts at illegal cultivation in certain tribal and rural areas.
The trade in poppy seeds, often used as a cover for narcotics production, has raised concerns among law enforcement agencies.
Poppy cultivation is directly linked to the production of opium and heroin, both of which fuel cross-border smuggling networks and organised crime.
The Afghan conflict and the global demand for narcotics have also influenced cultivation trends in the region.
By banning the transport and sale of poppy seeds, the Balochistan government aims to curb potential misuse and prevent narcotics from gaining ground once again in the province.
Experts argue that alongside enforcement measures, alternative livelihoods and awareness campaigns are crucial to addressing the root causes of poppy cultivation.
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Nonetheless, the latest move signals a stricter stance by the provincial authorities against any activity that could indirectly fuel the narcotics trade.
