JI MPA Hidayat-ur-Rehman Baloch Demands Democratic Struggle for Rights, Vows to Protect Gwadar Fishermen

Gwadar: Jamaat-e-Islami Balochistan’s Ameer and MPA Maulana Hidayat-ur-Rehman Baloch has called for a democratic struggle to secure rights against lawlessness and abuses, condemning alleged maltreatment of Afghan refugees and calling for protection of local coastal communities.

Speaking at events and meetings in Gwadar, the provincial lawmaker accused some authorities of humiliating, forcibly moving and extorting Afghan migrants—actions he said betray four decades of local hospitality and risk fuelling hostility between Pakistan and Afghanistan. *“Such cruel treatment of guests who have long lived among us is unacceptable and only pleases those who seek to sow division,”* he warned.

Maulana Hidayat-ur-Rehman also pledged to stand by Gwadar’s voters and to press for delivery on promises made to the port city’s residents. He stressed that local fishers are the rightful custodians of the coast and must not be deprived of their livelihoods. *“No one may force our fishermen into poverty for private profit—fishermen have the first right to the sea and to determine local fishing practices,”* he said.

The MPA alleged that some elements pose as fishermen by day while engaging in drug dealing by night, and he urged fish-factory owners to recognise and respect the rights of local seafaring communities. He pledged the party’s support for any fisherman facing exploitation and warned of robust resistance against attempts to dispossess locals.

Maulana Hidayat-ur-Rehman also appealed for unity among genuine provincial forces to ensure promises to Gwadar’s people are fulfilled with sincerity and good will.