People from different areas of Balochistan forming convoys to participate in the Baloch Yakjehti Committee’s (BYC) gathering scheduled for January 27 in Quetta, the capital city of Balochistan. BYC, which recently concluded a two-month-long sit-in protest in Islamabad, called for widespread participation in the upcoming event.
According to reports, thousands of people representing various regions, have embarked on a journey toward Quetta to participate in the gathering. While on the other hand, the government has imposed Act 144 in Quetta.
It’s noteworthy that the Islamabad sit-in protest by the BYC concluded in the past few days, witnessing a significant reception as the march participants reached Quetta on Thursday. The public turned out in large numbers to warmly welcome the participants on their arrival in Quetta, including women, children, and elders.
The BYC announced a session on January 27 in Quetta, appealing to people across Balochistan to join the gathering. Notably, the series of protests and marches began in Balochistan, especially after the alleged extrajudicial killings in November 2023, leading to a prolonged sit-in in Islamabad and subsequent nationwide demonstrations.
Yesterday, the Baloch Yakjehti Committee officially announced the session in Quetta, prompting the government to impose Section 144 throughout Quetta. The Information Minister of Balochistan, Jan Achakzai, posted on social media, stating that due to threat alerts for the next two weeks, no public gatherings are permitted in Quetta. This directive has been implemented across Balochistan following the instructions from the Islamabad High Court to ensure the safety of the general public.
Prominent leader of BYC, Dr. Mahrang Baloch released a video message, urging all Baloch women to participate in the public gathering in Quetta. She emphasized that the movement against Baloch genocide is inclusive of all Baloch, regardless of gender.
Dr. Mahrang appealed to the Baloch people to adhere to the ethical guidelines set by the BYC and avoid actions that could be exploited by adversaries. She expressed hope that the unity of the Baloch nation would thwart all conspiracies against it.
The public is advised to cooperate with the BYC’s administration, maintain peaceful and ethical conduct, and collaborate with law enforcement and security agencies for the sake of safety. The committee also issued guidelines restricting the display or use of any weapons during the gathering and emphasized reporting any suspicious individuals or groups to the committee’s supporters or the police immediately.
The directive also explicitly forbids any vandalism, removal of political party flags, or any disruptive activities within the gathering premises. Security measures have been heightened, and cooperation with the BYC members is encouraged to ensure thorough checks and vigilance.
BYC hopes that this national gathering in Quetta will be a symbol of unity for the Baloch nation and contribute to the eradication of “Baloch genocide” and the promotion of national solidarity.