The Balochistan Union of Journalists (BUJ) has condemned efforts to prevent journalists from covering a rally by the Balochistan National Party Mengal (BNP Mengal) in Quetta, describing it as an attack on press freedom.
According to the BUJ’s statement, the Deputy Commissioner of Quetta and the Balochistan Public Relations Department repeatedly contacted media houses, expressing concerns over the coverage of the political party’s rally. On the day of the BNP Mengal rally, media teams were initially denied access by the police, citing orders from the Deputy Commissioner. The blockade was eventually lifted following negotiations between the BNP Mengal leadership and the Deputy Commissioner.
The BUJ compared these efforts to curb media access to actions seen under autocratic regimes, suggesting they were even more stringent than previous restrictions. The union further highlighted inconsistencies between the caretaker government’s actions and its claims of supporting transparent elections and a free press environment.
The union also referred to a recent attempt by the Deputy Commissioner to restrict press conferences at Quetta’s press club. While the Chief Minister of Balochistan acknowledged these concerns, the BUJ suggests that such behaviors have continued.
The BUJ statement concluded with a demand for the caretaker government to ensure that the media can operate without hindrance. The union warned of potential stringent actions from journalist organizations if such restrictions continue.