PNAP Demands Immediate Restoration of Internet in Balochistan, Citing Severe Educational and Economic Losses

QUETTA – Nasrullah Khan Zaire, provincial president of the Pashtunkhwa National Awami Party (PNAP), along with provincial secretary Faqir Khushhal Kasi, has strongly criticized the government’s repeated suspension of internet services in Balochistan, calling it a highly alarming, irresponsible, and anti-public action. They stated that the internet blackout has caused severe damage to the province’s educational, economic, and social life.

In a joint statement, they demanded the immediate and full restoration of internet services across Quetta and the entire province. The statement emphasized that in the 21st century, internet access has become a fundamental human, educational, and economic necessity, relied upon by universities, schools, research institutions, businesses, banks, e-commerce platforms, media, and public communication.

The leaders expressed deep concern that students have been the most affected, with online classes, research, exams, and essential university functions disrupted, wasting valuable time for thousands of students. The business community has also suffered significantly, as trade, online transactions, digital marketing, banking, and daily commercial activities have come to a halt without internet access.

They warned that the internet suspension not only harms education and the economy but also violates basic civil rights. While governments worldwide invest in faster and better internet for their citizens, the current authorities in Balochistan are depriving the population of existing facilities. PNAP urged the government to immediately restore internet services, compensate for the economic and educational losses, and refrain from illegal or unconstitutional measures in the future. The party stressed that the people of the province will no longer tolerate such injustice and will raise their voices publicly if the internet shutdown continues.