QUETTA: The distribution of local and national newspapers in southern and central Balochistan remains suspended, since their delivery was stopped by Baloch militant organisations on October 25.

At present, newspapers are only being distributed in Pashtun areas of Balochistan.

The militant organisations had demanded space in the media. They gave media houses a deadline of Oct 24 to decide on whether they would carry their statements and news of activities, and announced that they would not allow the distribution of newspapers in the province after the deadline.

Press clubs in several towns attacked and are closed

Journalistic activities were suspended in several towns and cities of the province and press clubs in Mastung, Kalat, Turbat, Panjgur, Gwadar, Pasni, Ormara, Awaran, Nushki, Dalbandin, Kharan, Hub and some other areas have been closed for several days.

While there was complete halt in distribution between Oct 25 and Oct 27, media houses began printing newspapers after assurance from security officials.

Distribution was restored for two days in southern and central Baloch­istan but then transporters refused to deliver newspapers to other towns and cities after receiving threats from militant organisations.

Baloch militant organisations have stated that they would allow distribution of newspapers in southern and central Balochistan only if their point of view was given space in the media.

Militants earlier attacked the Hub Press Club and a shop selling newspapers in Turbat with grenades. They also slashed the tyres of a delivery wagon in the Awaran area and set fire to newspapers there.

Published in Dawn, November 5th, 2017