Why are Unemployed Pharmacists in Balochistan Criticizing the Government?
Synopsis
The Unemployed Pharmacists’ Action Committee in Balochistan is voicing its frustration over the government's insufficient job openings for pharmacists. With over 2,000 unemployed individuals, the limited vacancies have sparked outrage and calls for more transparent hiring processes. This protest reflects broader issues within the healthcare recruitment landscape, highlighting the need for systemic changes.
Key Takeaways
The government has announced a limited number of job vacancies for pharmacists in Balochistan.
Unemployed pharmacists are demanding a more transparent and fair recruitment process.
Protests have erupted in Quetta, leading to police arrests and disruptions in government services.
The lack of pharmacy departments in private hospitals is a significant concern.
The protests reflect broader issues of employment equity within the healthcare sector.
Quetta, Jan 22 (NationPress) The Unemployed Pharmacists’ Action Committee in Pakistan's Balochistan has expressed strong discontent regarding the government's recent announcement of a limited number of positions for over 2,000 jobless pharmacists, describing it as "comparable to giving a pinch of cumin to a camel", as reported by local media on Thursday.
During a press conference held at the Quetta Press Club on Wednesday, UPAC General Secretary Qasim Aziz Mengal labeled the government's decision as unacceptable and urged for the establishment of more job openings along with a transparent and merit-based recruitment process, as highlighted by Pakistan's prominent daily, Dawn.
He criticized the method of appointing pharmacists to BPS-17 roles through walk-in interviews, calling it a non-transparent tactic intended to benefit preferred individuals. Mengal alleged that the health department lacks merit, revealing the absence of transparency within the hiring procedure.
Further, he raised alarms about the non-existence and lack of pharmacy departments in private hospitals. He denounced the recent announcement from the health department regarding the advertisement of vacancies for doctors and pharmacists on a contract basis.
In a related incident, numerous government employees were taken into custody in Quetta on Tuesday as police obstructed a sit-in at the Red Zone, where employees were demanding the implementation of the Disparity Reduction Allowance. Reports indicate that mobile services were suspended during the protests in Quetta and surrounding areas.
Government employees from Balochistan made their way to Quetta following the sit-in announcement made by a coalition of workers’ organizations to voice their concerns, as reported by The Balochistan Post. Recently, many government offices have experienced disruptions due to these protests.
On Monday night, authorities placed containers at significant entry points and completely sealed off the Red Zone to prevent protesters from accessing the area. Despite the road blockades, employees began gathering outside the Quetta Press Club, but police intervened, leading to the arrest of several individuals at the scene. In the aftermath of the protests, the Balochistan Grand Alliance has initiated a "jail bharo" campaign.
Point of View
It is essential to acknowledge the frustrations expressed by the Unemployed Pharmacists’ Action Committee. Their demands for transparency and merit in recruitment resonate with many job seekers across the nation. The government's current approach raises significant concerns about equity in healthcare employment, necessitating immediate attention to create a fairer system that benefits all.
NationPress
20 Jun 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main issues raised by the Unemployed Pharmacists’ Action Committee?
The committee has highlighted the limited job vacancies for pharmacists, lack of transparency in the recruitment process, and the absence of pharmacy departments in private hospitals.
Why do they consider the government's announcement inadequate?
They believe that the limited vacancies are insufficient for the over 2,000 unemployed pharmacists, likening it to providing a minimal solution to a significant problem.
What actions have been taken by government employees in response?
Government employees have organized protests, including sit-ins, to demand better job conditions and the implementation of allowances.
Has there been any police intervention during the protests?
Yes, police have intervened, leading to the arrest of numerous protesters during their demonstrations in Quetta.
What is the 'jail bharo' campaign?
The 'jail bharo' campaign is a form of protest initiated by the Balochistan Grand Alliance, aiming to fill jails with protesters to draw attention to their demands.
