Quetta:In a statement issued today, Mir Ziaullah Langove, the Interior Minister of Balochistan, emphasized the right of every citizen to peaceful protest, stressing that it is the duty of the government to listen to the voices of demonstrators. He expressed particular concern for women participating in protests, noting that in tribal customs prevalent in Balochistan, women are regarded with dignity and respect.
Langove directed law enforcement agencies to handle protests with special care and respect for women’s dignity. He highlighted efforts made last night when Commissioner Quetta sent a delegation to negotiate with protesters, affirming that protests do not entail risking children’s safety when they leave schools.
The minister also addressed the sensitive issue of Bashir Zeb, associated with the banned Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), who allegedly facilitated the movement of hundreds of Pakistanis into Afghanistan, some involved in the killings of Pakistani nationals. He urged government agencies to intensify efforts to apprehend such individuals.
Recently, despite the imposition of Section 144 in Quetta city, protests have continued, prompting Minister Langove to appeal to the conscious citizens and women of Balochistan to protest responsibly, without resorting to attacks on law enforcement forces. He reminded that protesting in defiance of the law openly equates to breaking the law.
The government’s recent decision to release five women arrested under applicable laws was cited as evidence of its commitment to treating women with dignity and respect, regardless of the nature of their alleged crimes.
Mir Ziaullah Langove concluded by condemning any action that causes distress or hardship to the general public, urging responsible protest while maintaining respect for the rule of law and public order.
