Professor Dr. Manzoor Baloch, Chair of the Brahui Department at the University of Balochistan, was reportedly denied entry to Turbat University, leading to criticism from academic circles.
On a recent visit to Makuran, Professor Dr. Manzoor Baloch, a respected writer and academic, was reportedly stopped at the entrance of Turbat University and was not permitted entry. The university’s administration has not released any official statement explaining the actions taken by the security personnel at the gate.
The barring of Professor Baloch from the university premises has ignited strong condemnation from the academic community, including students and teachers, as well as social and political figures in the region. The act is perceived as a concerning sign of potential encroachment upon academic freedoms at the institution.
This latest development occurs amid growing tensions at Turbat University regarding the independence of academic activities. The administration previously came under scrutiny for allegedly restricting students from setting up a book stall at the university’s main entrance. Further, reports have emerged of security personnel recording the activities of students involved in the book stall, raising alarms over potential student profiling.
Furthermore, female students at Turbat University have voiced complaints about what they claim is an increase in interference by military in university affairs, including allegations of being forced to attend military-organized events.
The incident at Turbat University adds to a series of concerns regarding academic freedoms in Balochistan’s universities. Similar issues have been reported at Ghazi University, where there have been restrictions on student-led activities and heightened surveillance measures.