BALOCHISTAN, Pakistan (Aug 18): Authorities have extended Section 144 across Balochistan for another 15 days, continuing restrictions on public gatherings, pillion riding, and nighttime transport until August 31 amid heightened security concerns.
Officials say the curbs are linked to an uptick in militant activity around politically sensitive dates in August. Under the order, gatherings of more than five people remain banned, face coverings for motorcycle riders are prohibited, and buses and commercial vehicles are barred from highways between 5 p.m. and 5 a.m.
Mobile internet services (3G and 4G) remain suspended across all 36 districts of Balochistan despite a recent High Court ruling calling for restoration in non-sensitive areas. The blackout, in place since August 6, has disrupted education, business, and news dissemination. Students warn their studies are at risk, while journalists say information flow from the province has been severely restricted. Civil society groups have urged authorities to comply with the court’s directive.
Meanwhile, a curfew in parts of Kech district has forced shops to close and residents indoors. Locals report shortages of essential goods and allege harassment of shopkeepers who attempted to reopen. The All Parties Kech Alliance condemned the restrictions as “anti-people” measures, calling on officials to restore normalcy. Similar reports emerged from Gwadar, where residents said entry and exit points were sealed around Pakistan’s Independence Day.
The government defends the measures as necessary to counter militant threats. Critics, including political parties and human rights groups, argue the sweeping restrictions — particularly the internet blackout — amount to collective punishment of civilians.