Why Is the Pak Government Suppressing Peaceful Employee Protests in Balochistan?
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Synopsis
The Human Rights Council of Pakistan has condemned the Balochistan provincial government for suppressing peaceful protests by government employees. The protests demand a crucial allowance, highlighting ongoing issues of employee rights. This situation raises significant concerns about the government's approach to handling dissent and the protection of constitutional rights.
Key Takeaways
- The Human Rights Council condemned the government's suppression of protests.
- Protests were organized by the Grand Alliance of Balochistan government employees.
- Employees are demanding a Disparity Reduction Allowance.
- The government has threatened punitive actions against participants.
- Constitutional rights to protest are being challenged.
Islamabad, Dec 30 (NationPress) The Human Rights Council (HRC) of Pakistan on Tuesday expressed strong disapproval of the Balochistan provincial government for employing pressure tactics against peaceful protests held by government employees and for intimidating them by requesting their personal information.
This condemnation followed reports of a pen-down strike organized by the Grand Alliance of Balochistan government employees on Monday, aimed at advocating for their demands, including the payment of a Disparity Reduction Allowance.
In reaction, the Balochistan government announced its intention to take action against those employees who partook in the protest.
"These actions constitute a blatant infringement upon the rights to assemble and express opinions as enshrined in the Constitution of Pakistan, which are intended to safeguard employees' fundamental rights. We urge the Government of Balochistan to cease all retaliatory measures against employees immediately and to address their rightful demands within the constitutional framework," stated the HRC of Pakistan.
The rights organization voiced its support for the protesting employees and categorically rejected any undemocratic measures intended to suppress peaceful demonstrations.
As per a statement from the General Secretary of the Balochistan Grand Alliance, Ali Asghar Bangulzai, the employees' protest has progressed into a second phase due to the government's indifference and incompetence, as reported by Pakistan's leading daily, Dawn.
He noted that affiliated employee organizations would engage in a pen-down strike on Monday, followed by a total shutdown of all government offices in the province on December 30 and 31.
On Monday, government offices throughout Balochistan were inoperative as employees halted work in support of their demands.
According to official sources, Dawn reported that the Services and General Administration Department (S&GAD) of the Balochistan government requested information regarding all government employees involved in the protest.
In a formal correspondence directed to senior provincial officials, including additional chief secretaries and the Inspector General of Police, the S&GAD instructed the relevant departments to submit the names and designations of all employees who participated in the protest organized by the Balochistan Grand Alliance.
The departments were also ordered to provide this information to the competent authorities without delay.
Point of View
It is crucial to uphold the rights of employees to peacefully protest and express their grievances. The government must recognize these rights and work towards a resolution that aligns with constitutional values.
NationPress
01/01/2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted the protests by government employees in Balochistan?
The protests were initiated to demand a Disparity Reduction Allowance and address the concerns of government employees regarding their rights.
What actions has the Balochistan government taken against the protesting employees?
The Balochistan government has threatened to take action against employees who participated in the protests and requested their personal information.
What does the Human Rights Council of Pakistan say about these actions?
The HRC has condemned the government's actions as an infringement on the rights to assembly and expression, demanding an immediate halt to retaliatory measures.
