The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) criticized the detention of government workers peacefully advocating for their rights and called for the release of Balochistan Grand Alliance leaders and members moved to Mach Jail. HRCP emphasized that detaining employees for voicing demands, such as salary grievances, goes against democratic principles and human rights. The commission expressed concern over reports of harsh conditions, lack of food and medical care, and exposure to extreme cold in isolation cells, urging authorities to address issues through dialogue rather than force.
Workers from the Balochistan Employees Grand Alliance (BEGA) staged protests in Quetta and Khuzdar demanding disparity reduction allowances. BEGA employees marched from Bacha Khan Chowk to the City Police Station in Quetta, staging a sit-in and protesting against the government’s refusal to meet their demands. Police confirmed the voluntary arrest of 11 protesters participating in the rally.
In Khuzdar, government employees, led by alliance officials, including Aslam Notani and Manzoor Naushad, protested to highlight their grievances. The demonstrators, comprising staff from various departments, voiced their discontent over delayed responses to their demands. Earlier, in Quetta, authorities arrested numerous employees during a sit-in in the Red Zone, where workers sought the implementation of the Disparity Reduction Allowance, leading to disruptions in government office operations.
Protesters faced roadblocks and arrests as they gathered outside the Quetta Press Club following the sit-in announcement by workers’ organizations. Authorities deployed measures to prevent protesters from reaching the Red Zone, resulting in the disruption of government office functions.
