Former Balochistan Chief Minister Dr. Abdul Malik Baloch criticized the proposed closure of the Balochi, Brahvi, and Pushtoo departments at the University of Balochistan, calling it a conspiracy against the province’s mother tongues.
Speaking at a press conference at the Quetta Press Club, Dr. Baloch argued that educational institutions are not meant for profit and that the cited reason of a budget deficit was unacceptable, especially when “the whole of Pakistan is in deficit.” He questioned why the entire country shouldn’t be closed if deficits justify shuttering academic programs.
Dr Baloch also condemned the allocation of development project funds to Deputy Commissioners, claiming it violates a Balochistan High Court ruling. He expressed concern over rising fees in educational institutions, leading to declining student enrollment. The former Chief Minister further highlighted the plight of university staff facing delayed salaries, stating, “Academicians and employees go unpaid for three months.” He criticized the government for reducing wages instead of adjusting them to inflation. Dr. Baloch concluded by contrasting the closure of the Balochi department with the teaching of the language in Sweden, emphasizing the irony of the situation.