CHAGAI: Trade activities between Pakistan and Iran have been suspended as Iranian authorities have closed the joint trade gate and market on Taftan and Mir Javeh border crossings at connection with Eid holidays.

According to official sources, the Zero Point Gate was closed, while business activities were also halted in joint market on the both sides of Pak-Iran border. According to Levies Force officials, the trade activities would remain closed for at least a week during and after Eid days.

TV channel shuts down

Meanwhile, members of political parties, civil society and journalists have demanded the authorities to ensure resumption of the transmission of private Balochi language TV channel, Vsh News.

Demonstration rallies were held outside the Dalbandin Press Club and Nushki Press Club in this regard. The protesters chanted slogans against the provincial and federal governments for not granting advertisements to Vsh News, which allegedly resulted in its closure owing to non-payment. They said Vsh was the lone private Balochi language current affairs news channel which not only highlighted the burning issues of Balochistan but also promoted Baloch culture. They termed the closure of Vsh News as censorship of local media and urged the authorities concerned to immediately ensure resumption of its transmission.

Published in Dawn, July 31st, 2020