Pakhtunkhwa National Awami Party Condemns Arrests and Violence Against Grand Alliance Employees, Demands Immediate Acceptance of Demands
Quetta (Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Daily) — The Pakhtunkhwa National Awami Party has strongly condemned the arrest of Grand Alliance employees, along with allegations of baton charge, torture, and detention in various police stations, terming the incidents a serious violation of democratic norms and workers’ rights.
In a press release issued from the party’s provincial secretariat, the party stated that government employees intended to stage a peaceful protest outside the Provincial Assembly during the budget session in support of their legitimate constitutional and legal demands. However, instead of engaging in dialogue, the provincial government allegedly responded with force, arrests, and violence.
The statement said that public sector employees in Balochistan have been protesting for several months over key issues including salary disparities, improvement in service structure, and other basic rights. It added that demands such as the Disparity Reduction Allowance (DRA) are not only justified but have previously been acknowledged by the government, yet implementation has been delayed.
The party criticized the timing of the crackdown, saying that on the very day the provincial budget was presented, employees seeking their rights were subjected to violence and arrests, raising serious questions about governance and democratic practices.
The press release further emphasized that government employees are a key pillar of the state machinery, and treating them like criminals undermines public trust in institutions and weakens democratic values. It urged the government to resolve issues through dialogue rather than coercion.
Referring to ongoing protests by the Young Doctors Association, the statement highlighted that doctors have been staging a sit-in for several days over professional and administrative grievances. It also mentioned concerns regarding the alleged acid attack incident involving Dr. Maah Noor Nasir, calling for justice and protection for medical professionals.
The party stated that multiple segments of society—including employees, doctors, teachers, laborers, and students—are already under pressure due to inflation, unemployment, and economic instability, and the use of force against them will further deepen public unrest.
The statement demanded the immediate release of all arrested Grand Alliance employees, withdrawal of cases filed against them, and prompt implementation of all legitimate demands, including DRA. It also called for meaningful negotiations with protesting doctors and a transparent inquiry into violence against medical professionals.
In conclusion, the party urged the government to review its policies, abandon coercive measures, and restore trust by resolving issues through constitutional and democratic means, warning that continued repression could further weaken democratic institutions and public confidence.
