Balochistan High Court Terms Discriminatory Gas Supply a Violation of Constitution

Quetta: The Balochistan High Court (BHC) has declared the unequal supply of gas to the province’s domestic consumers as a clear violation of the Constitution, specifically Article 25, which ensures equality of citizens.

A bench comprising Chief Justice Rozi Khan Bareech and Justice Sardar Ahmed Haleemi was hearing a constitutional petition filed by Syed Nazir Agha and others. During the proceedings, the court expressed strong displeasure over the discriminatory treatment faced by Balochistan in gas distribution.

According to a report submitted by the Sui Southern Gas Company Limited (SSGCL), Balochistan receives only **60 million cubic feet per day (MMCFD)** for household consumers, while Punjab is supplied **407 MMCFD** and Sindh **198 MMCFD**.

Rejecting the report as unsatisfactory, the court ruled that such figures clearly demonstrate discrimination and also amount to a violation of **Article 158 of the Constitution**, which grants priority in gas consumption to the province where it is produced.

Taking note of the hardships faced by Quetta’s residents, particularly with the onset of winter, the bench directed the SSGCL general manager to immediately contact the head office to increase gas pressure in the city.

The court further ordered the Balochistan Chief Secretary — who is also a member of the SSGCL Board of Directors — to update the court in the next hearing about progress made in discussions with the federal government and steps taken to ensure Balochistan’s rightful share under Article 158.

The case has been adjourned until **November 4, 2025**.