Protesters in Turbat demand lifting of trade restrictions with Iran — Dawn
In the Pakistani city of Turbat, the All Parties Kech alliance held a protest against restrictions on cross-border trade and business activity, as well as the closure of crossing points on the border with Iran. Participants also raised the issues of kidnappings for ransom, extortion and enforced disappearances, Dawn reports.
Protesters’ demands
The demonstration took place near the Turbat Press Club. It was attended by political activists, traders, entrepreneurs, workers, students and civil society representatives. The rally was led by All Parties Kech leaders, including Fida Jan Buleidi, Ghulam Yasin Baloch, Zarif Zedag, Yunus Javed, Dr Ali Jan, advocate Mashkur Anwar, Mohammad Jan Dashti and Maulana Javed Nomani.
Participants held placards calling for the restoration of border trade, guaranteed access for local residents to border areas, the removal of checkpoints between Nasirabad and Hoshab, and the unblocking of roads. They also demanded the abolition of taxes on food products from Iran.
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Security-related calls
Fida Jan Buleidi said that the closure of the border with Iran was unacceptable, as cross-border trade had historically been an important source of income for local residents. Speakers also expressed concern about the security situation in the city.
Participants formulated three main demands: immediately restore law and order in Kech district, open border trade and all commercial and fuel crossings, and stop closing roads, markets, courts and hospitals under the pretext of security. In addition, they called for more opportunities for peaceful political expression.
