QUETTA: The Balochistan government has refused permission for Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) to hold a rally in Quetta. Officials said the decision was made due to serious security threats and the fragile law and order situation in the province. PTI and its allied opposition parties had planned a public gathering at the Hockey Ground on November 7, 2025. However, the administration imposed Section 144 across the city, banning gatherings of more than five people.
According to official sources, the district administration submitted a report to the Balochistan High Court (BHC) explaining the decision. It stated that permission could not be granted because of multiple threat alerts and recent violence. Authorities expressed concern that any large political event could become a target for terrorists. They also said the situation in Quetta remains tense after recent attacks.
The denial follows a deadly bombing in September that targeted a Balochistan National Party (BNP) rally at Shahwani Stadium. The explosion killed at least 15 people and injured 72 others. It occurred about 500 meters from the venue, nearly 45 minutes after the rally ended. Officials said 112 security personnel had been deployed, but the attack still took place. The incident raised alarm over growing security risks in the region.
Additional Chief Secretary (Home) Muhammad Hamza Shafqaat said the BNP rally had been advised to close early due to security alerts. He added that hostile elements were trying to destabilize Pakistan after their defeat in “Marka-e-Haq.” According to him, there are currently 22 active threat alerts in Balochistan. He stressed that security agencies are on high alert and are working to prevent further incidents.
Following the September blast, Chief Minister Mir Sarfraz Bugti announced compensation for the victims’ families. Each deceased person’s family received Rs1.5 million, while the seriously injured received Rs500,000. Those with minor injuries got Rs200,000. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif strongly condemned the attack, calling it part of a terrorist plot to spread chaos in Balochistan. The latest government decision to block the PTI rally reflects these ongoing fears and security challenges.
