Intense Debate in Balochistan Assembly Over Kidnappings, Iran Border Closure, and Gas Load Shedding; Session Adjourned Until February 25

Quetta (Qudrat Daily) – The Balochistan Assembly held a detailed discussion on the rising incidents of kidnappings for ransom in Panjgur and Turbat, the prolonged closure of the Iran border, and gas load shedding during the month of Ramadan. Assembly members demanded immediate and effective action from the government, while some ministers briefed the house on steps already taken.

Provincial Assembly member Rehmat Saleh Baloch said that kidnappings for ransom in Panjgur and Turbat have become a systematic business. He noted that kidnappers use local numbers to make calls, causing widespread fear among residents. He urged the government to take the issue seriously as the entire region is under a sense of insecurity.

Provincial Minister Zahoor Bileedi responded that maintaining law and order is the government’s top priority and serious measures are being implemented. Assembly member Asghar Ali Rand also expressed concern over the increasing kidnappings in Turbat, urging authorities to immediately recover the abducted youth.

During the session, member Zabid Reki raised the issue of the Iran border closure, which has lasted for two years, emphasizing that Balochistan is a vital province of Pakistan and its people should be provided relief, as the closure has severely affected the local economy.

Assembly member Abdul Majeed Badini highlighted the problem of gas load shedding during Ramadan, noting that residents in various areas, including Jaffarabad, face severe difficulties. He demanded that the General Manager of Sui Southern Gas Company be summoned to the assembly.

The Speaker of the Balochistan Assembly assured that the GM of Sui Gas would be called. Provincial Minister Saleem Khosa stated that both the KE Chief and GM of Sui Gas have been summoned multiple times, but merely calling them has not resolved the issue.

Assembly member Ghazala Gola stressed that the unavailability of gas during Suhoor and Iftar in Quetta not only causes difficulties for citizens but also poses life-threatening risks, and urgent review of the situation is necessary.

The house emphasized that practical steps are essential to resolve public issues, restore law and order, and ensure the provision of basic facilities in the province. The assembly session was subsequently adjourned until February 25.