With tensions escalating in Balochistan, the Balochistan National Party-Mengal (BNP-M) has announced its decision to march towards Quetta on April 6, following the failure of negotiations with the government to address their demands, including the release of Dr. Mahrang Baloch and other Baloch Yakjehti Committee (BYC) leaders. The sit-in near Mastung, now in its sixth day, has hardened resolve among protesters, with BNP-M chief Sardar Akhtar Mengal vowing to continue the demonstration until their grievances are met.
Addressing supporters at the protest camp in Lakpass, Mengal declared that party workers would begin their march to Quetta on Sunday, urging all members to assemble by April 5 to prepare for the long march. He warned that if authorities attempted to block their path, protesters would forge their own way, holding the government responsible for any consequences. The BNP-M has also alleged that the administration is digging trenches along the Quetta-Karachi Highway to obstruct the march.
As the BNP-M’s protest gained momentum, the Balochistan government issued a stern warning, stating that Mengal would be arrested if he attempted to enter Quetta. Government spokesperson Shahid Rind emphasized that while authorities were exercising restraint, any violation of Section 144 or disruption of public order would be met with strict action. Containers were placed on key entry points, and heavy security was deployed to prevent protesters from entering the city.
On Sunday morning, Rind confirmed that Mengal had been formally notified of his detention under the MPO but refused to surrender. Authorities remain on high alert, with reports of shelling near Sona Khan Chowk in Quetta, where BNP workers had gathered. Mengal, in a social media post, claimed security forces had surrounded his supporters at Lak Pass, hinting at a potential crackdown.
The standoff has raised concerns among residents, with fears of travel disruptions and heightened unrest. The BNP-M has called for province-wide protests, accusing the government of targeting its leaders and workers. As the situation remains volatile, all eyes are on Quetta, where a major confrontation looms between protesters and law enforcement.
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