Provincewide Crackdown Announced as Balochistan Invokes Section 144, Zero Leeway for Road Closures

Quetta: The Balochistan government has imposed Section 144 across the province, issuing a stern warning that any attempt to block roads under the pretext of protest will invite strict legal action, said Chief Minister’s Assistant Shahid Rind on Friday.
In a forceful message posted on social media platform X, Shahid Rind stated that the prohibition order is fully operational throughout Balochistan, adding that the Balochistan High Court has also delivered unambiguous directives barring all forms of road blockades.
He made it clear that no individual or group would be allowed to disrupt public life or hold citizens to ransom in the name of demonstrations. Shahid Rind said law enforcement agencies have been given explicit instructions to ensure that traffic flows freely on all routes. “Any violation of Section 144 or effort to obstruct roads will result in immediate arrest,” he cautioned.
Highlighting the government’s priorities, he said safeguarding the writ of the state and ensuring uninterrupted movement for the public remain paramount. He warned that protests interfering with routine life, economic activities, or emergency services would be handled strictly in accordance with the law.
The Chief Minister’s assistant reaffirmed that while peaceful protest is a constitutionally guaranteed right, there would be no tolerance for acts that generate disorder, paralyze civic life, or flout court orders.
He further said the provincial government is committed to enforcing the law impartially to preserve stability, public order, and effective governance across Balochistan.