‘If Terrorism Can Be Stopped by an SHO, Where Is That SHO?’ Asks Jamaat-e-Islami’s Hidayat-ur-Rehman Baloch

Quetta: Jamaat-e-Islami Balochistan chief and Member of the Provincial Assembly Maulana Hidayat-ur-Rehman Baloch has criticized the government’s handling of law and order, asking, “If terrorism can be stopped by an SHO, then where is that SHO?” He alleged that terrorists continue to move freely despite official claims.

Speaking at a press conference at the party’s provincial secretariat in Quetta, Hidayat-ur-Rehman said the government itself has acknowledged that the current system has failed. He claimed that political workers, journalists, and ordinary citizens are no longer safe in Balochistan and noted that several journalists have lost their lives while performing their professional duties.

The Jamaat-e-Islami leader announced that the party will hold protest sit-ins at 21 locations across Balochistan on August 7 as part of its campaign for improved governance and public security.

Criticizing the existing political and administrative system, he said Balochistan has been treated as a colony rather than an equal province and alleged that the province’s resources have not been managed in the interests of its people.

Referring to a recent statement by Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, Hidayat-ur-Rehman questioned the government’s ability to combat terrorism, saying that if it is merely “a matter for an SHO,” then the continued presence of militants raises serious questions.

He also claimed that although Rs100 billion had been allocated for maintaining law and order, the funds were not being used effectively. He questioned the silence of tribal leaders over the current security situation and criticized the role of the bureaucracy, alleging that it does not adequately consult elected representatives on administrative decisions.

Commenting on the proposed Pashtun National Jirga announced by Mahmood Khan Achakzai, Hidayat-ur-Rehman said Achakzai should first play a role in securing the release of former Prime Minister Imran Khan before pursuing other political initiatives.

The Jamaat-e-Islami leader called for the restoration of peace, the supremacy of the Constitution, protection of fundamental rights, and greater security for political workers, journalists, and the general public. He said the party’s nationwide “Badal Do Nizam” (Change the System) movement seeks to promote justice, peace, and the protection of citizens’ rights.