Authorities detained several male employees and sealed all access to the Quetta Press Club on Monday as part of a significant security operation launched in response to planned demonstrations.
The heightened security measures were implemented across the city in anticipation of protests announced by the All Parties Conference and the Balochistan Grand Alliance. A heavy contingent of police was deployed in the vicinity of the Press Club, completely blocking all connecting roads.
Law enforcement personnel prevented female employees from approaching the cordoned-off area, while their male counterparts were arrested and taken into custody.
Meanwhile, the Balochistan Grand Alliance proceeded with protest rallies in various other cities throughout the province. Demonstrators presented a charter of demands, which prominently includes the implementation of a Disparity Reduction Allowance (DRA).
In these other locations, district administrations reportedly used tear gas to disperse the gatherings, and a number of protesters were also taken into custody.