The Balochistan Grand Alliance’s protest in Pakistan’s Balochistan province has persisted for the fifth consecutive day, leading to the closure of government offices and institutions. The Alliance leaders emphasized the unity of employees in pursuing their legitimate and constitutional demands. They have vowed to sustain the movement until their demands are met, as reported by The Express Tribune.
The Alliance condemned the police for their actions during a protest on June 17, accusing them of using force against employees. They demanded justice for the injured employees and the immediate release of more than 50 workers. Following clashes and arrests of leaders, the Balochistan Employees’ Grand Alliance declared an indefinite shutdown of government offices and educational institutions.
On June 17, clashes between employees and police prompted the Alliance to announce the shutdown. Their planned march to the Balochistan Assembly during the budget session was thwarted by heavy police and Frontier Corps presence. Despite the crackdown, Alliance leaders affirmed their intent to escalate the protest movement, denouncing the use of force against peaceful demonstrators.
During an attempt to protest the provincial budget at the Assembly, government employees were stopped by police near Chaman Phatak. Tear gas was used to disperse the protesters, resulting in the arrest of over 10 leaders and workers. The Alliance, dissatisfied with a seven per cent salary increase in the budget, demanded a 35 per cent disparity reduction allowance and a previously pledged 25 per cent salary hike.
