The Balochistan government has strongly criticized Sardar Akhtar Mengal for inciting unrest in the province, as violent clashes broke out between police and protesters in Wadh, Khuzdar district leaving at least five civilians injured, including two with gunshot wounds. The violence marks a dangerous escalation in what the government describes as a politically motivated and unjustified agitation lacking public support.
According to officials, the unrest began after Mengal’s call for road blockades across the province. Police were forced to intervene in Wadh when protesters attempted to disrupt public order. Baton charges and aerial firing were reported, leading to multiple injuries. Hospital sources confirmed that the injured were first treated at Wadh Hospital and later transferred to Khuzdar Civil Hospital for further treatment.
Balochistan government spokesperson Shahid Rind condemned the violence and held Akhtar Mengal directly responsible for endangering peace and creating chaos. “Mengal is misleading the public by claiming to represent all of Balochistan. The reality is that he does not have the majority’s support,” Rind said. “When he travelled from Wadh to Quetta, he had barely 4,000 people with him, and the ongoing sit-in has drawn only 1,500 to 2,500 participants at most.”
Rind added that the protests have caused public suffering for the past nine days by blocking key roads, yet the government has so far exercised restraint. “We will not allow anyone to shut down roads. All Deputy Commissioners have been strictly directed to ensure that traffic remains open. Any DC failing to do so will face disciplinary action,” he warned.
The spokesperson revealed that Mengal was shown an order under Section 3 of the Maintenance of Public Order (MPO) earlier today when he attempted to proceed to Quetta. Authorities informed him that he would be arrested if he advanced further, leading him to retreat and remain at the sit-in camp.
“Akhtar Mengal may be a senior politician, but he is playing a dangerous game by trying to disrupt law and order for political mileage. The government is still attempting to handle this politically, but public safety remains the top priority,” Rind concluded.
The Balochistan government has reiterated that it will not allow anyone—regardless of status—to hold the province hostage under the guise of protest.
