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The Hazara Democratic Party (HDP) has rejected Balochistan's new provincial budget of 106 billion rupees, calling it a 'crude joke' on the people. The HDP criticized the provincial government, alleging it is pushing the resource-rich province backward into medieval times instead of modernizing it, and that the budget offers no relief to the poor. Expressing deep concern over Quetta's condition, the party stated that not a single significant project for the provincial capital was included in the substantial development program, leaving its citizens deprived of education, health, clean drinking water, basic facilities, and employment opportunities. The HDP further claimed that funds allocated to Quetta's members for 'tough tiles' would be wasted on theft and corruption due to 'contractor budgets' in the absence of genuine public representatives.
Balochistan's provincial government members stated that the Chief Minister negotiated a reduction in federal funding cuts from 94 billion rupees to 58 billion rupees, presenting a budget under difficult financial circumstances. Opposition members, however, criticized both federal and provincial budgets for neglecting their constituencies and demanded greater provincial autonomy over resources and taxes. The leader of the opposition, Mir Younis Aziz Zehri, highlighted the inadequacy of the 206 billion rupee development budget, the lack of mega-projects for Balochistan, and expressed concerns about the distribution of education funds and the ongoing law and order situation, while also condemning the mistreatment of protesting government employees and teachers.
Maulana Abdul Wasey, the provincial chief of Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam (JUI) in Balochistan, stated that the current provincial government has compromised the collective interests and constitutional rights of the people of Balochistan by surrendering billions of rupees from the NFC Award to the federal government. He emphasized that the JUI played a crucial role in the 7th NFC Award to secure Balochistan's financial share, leading to a significant increase in funds based on a formula considering the province's unique geography, backwardness, and inverse population density. Maulana Wasey criticized the current non-representative government for undermining these gains for political interests, asserting that any reduction in Balochistan's share is unconstitutional as per Article 160 (3A) and a betrayal of the province's autonomy. He also highlighted that during JUI's time in power, the party actively fought for Balochistan's rights and secured development projects, contrasting it with the current administration which he claims has neglected the province's development.
The Balochistan Employees Grand Alliance has announced a province-wide indefinite closure of all government offices, educational institutions, and other public departments starting June 18. This decision was made in response to alleged police action, violence, and arrests of employees during a protest rally. The alliance leaders, including Abdul Qudoos Kakar and Younus Kakar, stated that daily protests, rallies, and public gatherings will also be held across various districts. Furthermore, a sit-in until death will commence in Quetta from June 19, vowing to continue the movement until their demands are met and to expand protest activities in the coming days. Kakar accused authorities of using force against peaceful protesters and arresting several workers, which has caused significant unrest among government employees.
Dr. Abdul Malik Baloch, leader of the National Party, strongly criticized the federal budget for neglecting Balochistan despite the province's resources sustaining the federal system. Speaking at a memorial reference for the late Haneedry Maseeh Baloch, he stated that Balochistan is grappling with extreme helplessness, insecurity, and lawlessness. Dr. Baloch asserted that Pakistan has become a 'security state' where Parliament is powerless, the judiciary is restricted, and media is suppressed, rejecting the federal budget as a whole. He also condemned recent severe social tragedies in Quetta, including murders, suicide, and an acid attack, highlighting the grave insecurity faced by citizens, especially women. Furthermore, he accused PDM parties of compromising democratic values and supported the Grand Alliance's demands for salary increases proportional to inflation for government employees.
Balochistan is set to present its budget for the fiscal year 2026-27 in the provincial assembly today, Wednesday, at 4 PM. The budget, with an estimated total volume exceeding 1100 billion rupees, is expected to be surplus and tax-free. Finance Minister Mir Shoaib Nowsherwani will present the budget, which allocates approximately 800 billion rupees for non-development expenditures and 300 billion rupees for the provincial Public Sector Development Program (PSDP). Key allocations include 170 billion for pensions, 150 billion for education, 130 billion for law and order, and 70 billion for health. Additionally, a proposal to increase salaries for provincial government employees, mirroring federal government increases, is under consideration, alongside the expected announcement of 3,000 new job vacancies.
In Quetta, Pakistan, a tragic incident occurred in the Thana Khaliq Shaheed area when a wall unexpectedly collapsed. The collapse resulted in the deaths of two children, 15-year-old Zubair and 10-year-old Omar, who were trapped under the debris. Another child sustained injuries in the accident. Emergency services recovered the bodies and transported them, along with the injured child, to a hospital for necessary procedures. After legal formalities, the bodies were handed over to their families, marking a somber event for the local community.
Mir Obaid Gorgage, a member of the Balochistan Assembly and leader of the Pakistan Peoples Party, asserted that conspiracies and negative propaganda against the provincial government led by Chief Minister Mir Sarfraz Bugti would not succeed. He stated that the current government is actively working for the welfare, peace, and development of the province, addressing long-standing issues that cannot be resolved overnight. Gorgage highlighted Chief Minister Bugti's efforts in improving governance, public services, accelerating development projects, creating youth employment, and establishing peace, which have put Balochistan on a path of progress. He criticized certain elements for attempting to mislead the public for political gain, emphasizing that the current government's performance in solving public problems and developing the province is exceptional. The PPP and its allies are committed to continuing their mission of public service and dedicating efforts to Balochistan's development, prosperity, and lasting peace.
In a tragic incident in Quetta, Pakistan, a man was fatally shot by his own brother due to a long-standing domestic dispute. The victim, identified as Muhammad Basit, son of Manzoor Ahmed, of Qureshi Mohallah, Fatah Khan Road, Quetta, died on the spot after being shot by his sibling. Police and rescue teams immediately arrived at the scene, transferred the body to a hospital, and initiated an investigation. Authorities believe the shooting stemmed from deep-seated family discord and have begun raids to apprehend the suspect while continuing further legal proceedings. This unfortunate event highlights the severe consequences that can arise from unresolved domestic conflicts.
The Balochistan government has compulsorily retired an additional 34 teachers after departmental proceedings were completed under the Balochistan Employees Efficiency and Discipline Act 2011. A notification issued by the Secretary of the Colleges, Higher and Technical Education Department confirms that the Chief Secretary Balochistan approved the compulsory retirement of these 34 officers under section 4(1)(b)(iv) of the act. The affected teachers include 16 lecturers of Grade 17, 12 assistant professors of Grade 18, 5 associate professors of Grade 19, and one professor of Grade 20. Most of those penalized are from Quetta, while others are from Sibi, Mastung, and Zhob. This follows a previous action where 37 teachers were also subjected to compulsory retirement and other penalties by the Balochistan government.
The National Party's central spokesperson has strongly condemned the government's suspension of doctors and retaliatory actions against them, following a tragic acid attack on a lady doctor at Civil Hospital. This incident has left the medical community feeling deeply insecure, which is a grave concern as the provision of quality healthcare is impacted if medical professionals are not safe. The spokesperson stated that the doctors' reaction and the Young Doctors' decision to protest and close OPDs until security concerns were addressed were natural responses to these fears. The party criticized the government for its unserious approach instead of addressing doctors' concerns and initiating immediate negotiations. They urged the government to retract punitive measures, engage in meaningful dialogue with doctors' organizations, and accept their legitimate demands to resolve the issue.
Qaim Khan, an unemployed graduate from Sui, Dera Bugti, publicly burned his educational degrees outside the Quetta Press Club in protest against rampant unemployment and corruption in Balochistan. He stated that despite completing graduation and applying to numerous government and private organizations, he has been unable to secure a job, alleging that bribes were demanded for employment and that hirings occur based on favoritism rather than merit. Khan, now overage and deeply frustrated by continuous joblessness, highlighted that his burnt degrees symbolized 20 years of struggle and hard work. He appealed to the Chief Minister of Balochistan to eliminate the culture of nepotism and ensure equal employment opportunities for educated youth, emphasizing that government indifference and limited job prospects forced him to take this extreme step.
Train service in Balochistan, Pakistan, has been suspended for two days due to unavoidable circumstances, according to railway officials. The departure of the Jaffer Express from Quetta to Peshawar was canceled on Wednesday, and no trains will depart on Thursday either. Officials also stated that the Jaffer Express, which was en route to Quetta, will only travel as far as Jacobabad. This suspension also impacts other routes, as the Bolan Mail to Karachi and the Chaman Passenger train to Chaman were already suspended. The disruption affects inter-provincial travel and transportation of goods, impacting commuters and businesses reliant on the rail network in the region.
The funeral prayers for four children and one woman who died in the tragic Wahdat Colony incident in Quetta were held in T&T Colony, with a large attendance of family and community members. The victims were later buried in the Sabzal Road cemetery amidst an atmosphere of grief. Separately, a case has been registered at Shaheed Amir Mohammad Dasti Police Station against government officials, including S&GAD officer Aftab Jabal, his wife, Masood Mengal, and Director Small Industries Iqbal. The complaint was filed by Zarif Khan Gorgage, brother of Muhammad Asif, who allegedly killed his wife and children before attempting suicide, claiming his brother was blackmailed by the named individuals, especially Aftab Jabal, who threatened him regarding his daughter, leading to the extreme act.
In Khuzdar, Balochistan, two police stations, Nal and Greshah, were attacked by approximately 50-60 armed terrorists riding motorcycles and pickup trucks. The attackers used modern weapons, rocket launchers, and hand grenades, but their assault was repelled by the brave resistance of the ATF police squad members stationed at the police stations. Tragically, one woman and one man died, and over 18 civilians were injured during the attack, with ambulances transporting them to DHQ Hospital. The police successfully thwarted attempts to occupy the stations, though the Greshah station sustained minor damage to its gate and watch tower from a rocket launcher. Before fleeing, the terrorists also caused minor damage to a marble factory and set fire to five vehicles belonging to Mir Shah Meer Bizanjo and a shop. SSP Khuzdar, along with heavy contingents of ATF and police, arrived at the scene, cordoned off the area, and brought the situation under control.
Balochistan Chief Minister Mir Sarfaraz Bugti has ordered an immediate, transparent, and impartial investigation into the tragic incident in Quetta's Wahdat Colony, where a person named Asif Ali allegedly killed five individuals before committing suicide. Assistant Chief Minister for Political and Media Affairs, Shahid Rind, stated that two suspected government employees have been arrested based on Asif Ali's video message recorded before his death, and the scope of the investigation is being expanded with further evidence and forensic analysis. The Chief Minister has sought an urgent report and emphasized that the investigation will be conducted without discrimination to bring all facts to light and ensure justice. The government assures that all responsible parties will be held accountable, and no individual is above the law.
Former Chief Minister of Balochistan and Federal Minister Jam Kamal Khan, via a statement on the social media platform X, criticized a recent statement made by Achaqzai. Khan asserted that exploiting existing divisions between the Baloch and Pashtun communities purely for political gain is both unethical and represents the lowest form of political opportunism. He specifically accused Achaqzai's recent actions of being solely intended to sow discord for political advantage. The statement underscores ongoing political tensions and community relations within Balochistan.
The Pashtunkhwa National Awami Party has strongly condemned the brutal killing of esteemed teacher Malik Shengal Khan Tareen, who was abducted on May 21 from Killi Mangi in Ziarat district and subsequently martyred by his captors. The party criticized the government and state institutions for their severe failure to ensure the safety and recovery of Tareen and three other individuals abducted with him, highlighting that no effective measures were taken. This incident underscores a deteriorating law and order situation in Balochistan, particularly in Pashtun regions, where ordinary citizens, teachers, and intellectuals face increasing insecurity, abductions for ransom, target killings, and extortion, despite significant spending on security. The party asserts that this tragic event exposes the government's weak writ and its failure to protect the lives and property of its citizens, forcing people to consider alternative means for their own protection.
Maulana Fazal-ur-Rehman, leader of Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam (F), has arrived in Quetta for a three-day visit to attend the "Tahaffuz Madaris-o-Huqooq-e-Balochistan Conference" (Protection of Madrassas and Rights of Balochistan Conference) in Pishin. The conference, organized by JUI-F, will take place at the Pishin Sports Complex Ground starting at 3 PM on Thursday. During the event, Maulana Fazal-ur-Rehman, along with other central and provincial leaders like Maulana Abdul Ghafoor Haidri and Allama Rashid Soomro, will address attendees. The JUI-F spokesperson confirmed that preparations for the conference are complete, and workers from across the province are expected to participate. Maulana Fazal-ur-Rehman is anticipated to announce a future course of action regarding the law and order situation and inflation.
Balochistan National Party (BNP) senior vice president Sajid Tareen Advocate, accompanied by other party leaders, held a press conference in Quetta to strongly condemn the alleged raid by forces on the house of party senior leader, former district nazim, and Musiani tribe chief Sardar Naseer Ahmed Musiani in the Bulbul Zehri area of Khuzdar. Tareen denounced the reported violence against Musiani and the arrest of his sons, labeling it a shameful act by the government. He asserted that such tactics are being used to silence party leadership from speaking out against ongoing oppression in Balochistan, and questioned the democratic process in the region given Musiani's history of adhering to democratic and constitutional paths. The BNP vowed to continue its political and constitutional struggle against all forms of oppression under the leadership of Sardar Akhtar Jan Mengal.
Balochistan Chief Minister Mir Sarfraz Bugti announced that security forces conducted successful intelligence-based operations against terrorists across the province, resulting in the killing of 17 dangerous terrorists in various districts. Bugti emphasized that terrorist elements and their facilitators would not be allowed to undermine Balochistan's peace, stability, development, and prosperity. He praised the security agencies' performance and reiterated the state's and all security institutions' commitment to protecting the lives and property of the province's people and establishing lasting peace. The Chief Minister vowed that those who play with the blood of innocent citizens would not escape justice, and the operation would continue with full force until the last terrorist is eliminated.
Security forces conducted intelligence-based operations in various districts of Balochistan, Pakistan, resulting in the killing of 17 terrorists. The Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) reported that these operations took place in areas including Mastung, Noshki, Zari, Khuzdar, and Kech, following intelligence about terrorist presence. During exchanges of fire, 17 terrorists were neutralized, and weapons, explosives, and improvised explosive devices (IEDs) were recovered from their possession. The ISPR stated that the killed terrorists were involved in various acts of terrorism, and clearance and sanitization operations are ongoing in the affected areas. Pakistan's military reiterated its commitment to eradicate terrorism from the country under 'Operation Azm-e-Istehkam' and to eliminate externally sponsored terrorism.
The Academic Staff Association of Balochistan University held a cabinet meeting, presided over by Professor Dr. Kaleemullah Bareach, to address the severe financial crisis faced by the university. Key concerns discussed included the non-payment of dues to retired teachers and employees, cuts in teacher benefits, and other administrative issues. It was highlighted that many teachers and employees retired since 2022 have not received their gratuity, pension contributions, GP fund, and other increased dues, leading to significant financial hardship. To protest these issues, the Association decided to set up a protest camp on June 4th outside the main gate of Balochistan University. The cabinet also demanded an end to cuts in approved allowances, implementation of teachers' approved upgradation, and filling of long-vacant positions. They urged the provincial government to announce a special financial package for the university, increasing annual grants by at least 15 billion rupees to ensure a sustainable solution for financial problems and outstanding dues.
Three separate incidents occurred in Balochistan, Pakistan: In Quetta, a 30-year-old man identified as Ali Ahmed was shot dead by unknown assailants near Gahi Khan Chowk. In Usta Mohammad, the body of an 8-year-old boy, Muhammad Yaseen, who had been missing for two days, was recovered from a canal near Hadero Canal. Meanwhile, in the Shaharg area of Harnai, two coal miners were killed when a soil塌方 occurred inside a coal mine while they were working, prompting rescue efforts to retrieve their bodies.
