Authorities in Balochistan suspended mobile internet services across multiple districts on Friday, citing security concerns and creating significant disruptions for residents and businesses alike.
Widespread Internet Shutdown
Mobile internet services were completely suspended in ten districts of Balochistan, including Quetta, Mastung, Pishin, Killa Abdullah, Chaman, Killa Saifullah, Zhob, Loralai, Harnai, and Ziarat. The blackout remained in effect until 9pm on Friday, creating substantial challenges for students and businesses that rely on internet connectivity for their daily operations.
The Balochistan Home Department defended the decision, stating it was necessary to ensure public safety and maintain order during ongoing security operations. Authorities emphasized that the action was taken specifically to protect citizens from potential threats.
PTI Rally Forced to Cancel
In a related development, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leaders in Balochistan announced the cancellation of their planned rally in Quetta, citing concerns about public safety and potential disturbances. Despite having secured all necessary approvals from the District Commissioner, Home Department, and High Court, the party faced what they described as government interference.
PTI Balochistan leaders, including Provincial President Dawood Shah and Provincial General Secretary Jahangir Rind, explained at a press briefing that on the day of the scheduled rally, water was released onto the event grounds, the city was heavily barricaded, and internet services were suspended simultaneously.
Other senior PTI members present included Noor Khan Khilji, Zainul Abidin Khilji, Jan Baloch, Nawab Domer, Ishaq Tareen, and various district leaders.
Democratic Rights Under Fire
Dawood Shah strongly criticized the government's actions, calling them a blatant attempt to block PTI's constitutional right to hold peaceful demonstrations. "The city wore a deserted look and it appeared as the city was under lockdown, which is a blatant infringement on democratic freedoms," he remarked. "This is a clear effort to prevent our lawful gathering."
Despite the cancellation, PTI leaders assured supporters that the decision was made in the interest of public security and peace preservation. They confirmed that a new date for the rally would be announced shortly.
Shah stated: "Our primary focus is on ensuring the safety, peace, and well-being of general public and our supporters. While today's rally has been postponed, our commitment to our cause remains unwavering, and we will continue to advocate for the rights of the people of Balochistan."
