Police Harassment of Female Lawyer and Journalists at Quetta Press Club Condemned by Bar Councils

**Quetta:** The Pakistan Bar Council and Balochistan Bar Council have strongly condemned alleged police misconduct, harassment, and the use of force against a female lawyer and journalists at the Quetta Press Club. Both councils have demanded a transparent investigation and accountability for the officials involved.

According to a statement issued by the Bar Councils, Advocate Nadia Baloch had visited the Press Club to hold a peaceful press conference regarding the deteriorating health of her sister, Dr. Mah Rang Baloch. During the event, police reportedly attempted to suppress her constitutional right to freedom of expression and subjected her to inappropriate treatment.

The statement described the incident as “unacceptable and contrary to human values,” expressing serious concern over similar mistreatment of journalists and reporters at the Press Club, calling it a direct attack on the fourth pillar of democracy.

The Secretary of the Balochistan Bar Council emphasized that both lawyers and journalists are guardians of constitutional rights and the rule of law, and the use of force against them represents a dangerous trend that must be stopped immediately.

The Bar Councils urged the government and senior authorities to conduct a transparent, impartial investigation and take strict disciplinary action against those responsible. They reaffirmed their commitment to protecting fundamental human rights and standing with journalists against any illegal actions.

Additionally, the legal community called for concrete measures to ensure the dignity and safety of journalists and lawyers in the future.