Quetta:In a stark rebuke to recent events, the provincial government of Balochistan has strongly denounced the use of excessive force, baton charges, shelling, and actions contrary to Balochistan’s cultural norms, particularly directed at women and children during a peaceful rally held in various parts of Quetta.
The rally, organized in solidarity for missing persons in Balochistan, saw police resorting to baton charges and violence against participants, including youth, women, and children, according to a statement issued by the provincial chapter of the Balochistan National Party (BNP) Platform 47.
“This condemnable act of violence against women, baton charges, shelling, and disregard for Balochistan’s cultural values are rarely witnessed in Balochistan’s history,” the statement read, criticizing the provincial authorities for their inability to prevent such atrocities against women and children.
The government’s response to protests and its handling of the recovery of missing persons has been a subject of ongoing debate, with opposition parties and civil society groups condemning what they perceive as a lack of urgency and resolve from the ruling authorities.
“The use of force and brutality against women, children, and peaceful demonstrators is not only a violation of human rights but also undermines the rule of law,” the statement continued, urging the judiciary to take notice of police misconduct and ensure accountability for future incidents.
The incident has sparked widespread outrage and calls for accountability from various quarters, with demands for an immediate investigation into the incident and appropriate disciplinary action against those responsible.
The Balochistan government’s response to this crisis will likely remain a contentious issue in the coming days, as the province grapples with the repercussions of what has been described as a blatant disregard for basic human rights and civil liberties.
