Quetta:In a press conference held at the Quetta Press Club, Maulana Hidayat-ur-Rehman Baloch, Deputy Emir of Jamaat-e-Islami and a member of the Balochistan Assembly, criticized the current government for its handling of the situation in Gwadar. He highlighted that the blockade of roads has not only worsened conditions in Gwadar but has also severed its land connection with the rest of the country.
Rehman questioned how negotiations could occur amidst the use of force and called for the government to open the roads and restore the network. He expressed his willingness to act as a mediator between the protesters and the government, and warned that if the government failed to take practical steps, he would join the protests himself.
He detailed the severe impacts of the road blockades, including the need for air ambulances for patients, disruptions in mobile networks, and shortages of food and water. Rehman reported that there have been four fatalities and damage to government buildings. He asserted that meaningful negotiations would only be possible once the roads are reopened and internet services are restored.
Rehman criticized the government for its lack of serious negotiation efforts and for being complacent while the situation in Gwadar deteriorates. He condemned the government’s failure to address the humanitarian crisis and the plight of the people suffering from hunger and thirst. He also called for action against extremists responsible for damaging government property and killing security personnel.
He urged the government to immediately initiate talks with the Baloch Solidarity Committee to resolve the issue of missing persons. Rehman expressed frustration with the government’s approach, noting that ministers and advisers appear disconnected from the real problems faced by the people of Balochistan.
