QUETTA – April 16, 2025: After three weeks of non-stop protest, the Balochistan National Party-Mengal (BNP-M) has officially called off its 20-day-long sit-in in Mastung, which was staged against the controversial arrests of Baloch activists, including Dr Mahrang Baloch, a leading voice for Baloch rights.

Instead of continuing the protest at Lak Pass, BNP-M Chief Akhtar Mengal has now announced a shift in strategy. The party will hold rallies across various districts of Balochistan to continue demanding justice and raise awareness on what it calls the unlawful detention of peaceful activists.

 

Why Was the Sit-In Started?

The sit-in began after the arrest of Dr Mahrang Baloch, the Chief Organiser of the Baloch Yakjehti Committee (BYC), and other female activists. The BNP-M and supporters claim that the arrests were part of a larger crackdown on peaceful protesters demanding rights for the Baloch people.

Earlier this month, Sindh police arrested Sammi Deen Baloch, another BYC leader, in Karachi during a demonstration. The arrest was met with fierce resistance from the public and activists, though she was later released. However, Mahrang Baloch and at least 16 others remained in detention, sparking protests in Quetta, Karachi, and beyond.

The situation escalated when protestors alleged that three of their fellow activists were beaten to death during a police action in Quetta. This further fueled the outrage and strengthened calls for accountability.

 

Who Is Mahrang Baloch?

Mahrang Baloch is a well-known human rights activist and the central figure of the Baloch Yakjehti Committee. She has been vocal about the enforced disappearances, alleged state violence, and systematic discrimination faced by the Baloch people.

Her leadership in organizing peaceful protests and mobilizing youth has made her a respected yet controversial figure, often under government scrutiny.

 

Economic and Social Impact of the Protest

The 20-day protest had significant consequences, especially for people in Quetta, Mastung, and nearby regions. Key highways connecting Quetta with Karachi and Taftan were blocked during the sit-in, halting the movement of goods and fuel.

 

Major impacts included:

  • Over 1,200 trucks and tankers are stuck at the Pak-Iran border, including 847 carrying LPG and petroleum from Iran.

  • Shortage of essential commodities in Quetta and the surrounding areas.

  • Daily financial losses in millions of rupees, according to Muhammad Ayub Maryani, President of the Quetta Chamber of Commerce and Industry (QCCI).

 

Why BNP-M Called Off the Sit-In

While the protest had drawn national attention, Akhtar Mengal explained that public inconvenience caused by the prolonged blockade was a major reason for calling it off. Roads were re-opened to restore normal life, especially for traders and commuters.

Mengal emphasized that the protest was not ending, but transforming. The new plan involves peaceful rallies in various districts to keep the pressure alive without disrupting daily life.

He also announced that BNP-M’s central committee will meet in Quetta on April 18 to plan the next phase of their campaign.

 

Political Support and Future Strategy

BNP-M also hosted an All Parties Conference (APC) on Monday, where nine key resolutions were passed. These resolutions included:

  • A call for the implementation of constitutional rights as per the 1948 Instrument of Accession between Balochistan and Pakistan.

  • A push for a national dialogue to resolve the decades-old Balochistan issue.

  • Demands for the immediate release of all detained activists, especially Mahrang Baloch.

This conference showed that BNP-M is seeking broader political backing for its cause, indicating that this movement is far from over.

 

Public Reaction and Social Media Outcry

Social media has played a big role in amplifying the issue. Hashtags like #FreeMahrangBaloch, #BalochLivesMatter, and #JusticeForBYC have trended across platforms.

People from various walks of life, including students, journalists, and international human rights groups, have demanded transparency regarding the arrests and have shown solidarity with the Baloch activists.

 

What’s Next?

With the sit-in now ended, all eyes are on the April 18 BNP-M cabinet meeting, where the party is expected to finalize its rally schedule and further action plan.

Meanwhile, the demand for the release of Mahrang Baloch continues to echo not only in Balochistan but across the country. Her supporters remain hopeful that through consistent peaceful pressure and democratic avenues, they will succeed in bringing her and others back home.

 

Conclusion

The arrest of Mahrang Baloch has sparked one of the most significant protest movements in recent Balochistan history. BNP-M’s decision to call off the sit-in and replace it with district-level rallies shows a tactical shift that aims to keep public support strong while minimizing disruption.

With the political landscape heating up and support for the activists growing, the coming weeks will be crucial in shaping the outcome of this ongoing movement for justice and human rights in the region.

Read More: Latest. Eddie Howe’s condition improves after a pneumonia attack