QUETTA: The Balochistan Assembly on Monday adopted a resolution urging the provincial government to take measures for the protection of cultural heritage as the province has great importance due to its historical values, different languages, architecture, music and different customs.

The resolution was moved by parliamentary secretary Mir Zareen Khan Magsi in the assembly presided over by Speaker Abdul Khaliq Achakzai.

He said that the cultural heritage sites in the province were facing the impact of the environmental changes, urbanisation, illegal exploration, lack of resources, while people lack awareness about the importance of these heritage site.

The resolution suggested that the government and institutions concerned take measures for the preservation of these assets for the next generation.

Balochistan Assembly urges law enforcement agencies to take steps to stop antiques’ smuggling

The law enforcement agencies should take concrete steps for stopping smuggling of antiques’ and other things which reflect the old civilisation.

It was also demanded through the resolution that local administration must protect the cultural heritage sites and an heritage committee should be formed comprising representatives of local community, cultural representatives, educational experts, local administration and civil society.

Dr Rubaba Buledi, the chief minister’s adviser on women development, presented the amendment bill on workplace harassment of women.

However, the assembly rejected the bill as the opposition members argued that it should have been sent first to the standing committee on women’s development.

Dr Abdul Malik Baloch of the National Party remarked that the rejection of a government-sponsored motion amounted to a vote of no-confidence against the government.

Dr Bukedi noted that while the assembly was supporting cultural preservation, it was simultaneously rejecting legislation intended to protect women.

Additionally, Finance Minister Mir Shoaib Nosherwani presented a five-year audit report on the social welfare and special education department.

The house also discussed the preference of the Balochistan Public Service Commission and the members expressed their views about the recruitment process for low-grade government employees and expressed their concerns about the performance of the BPSC.

Published in Dawn, May 6th, 2025