QUETTA: A multiparty conference (MPC) comprising political leaders, traders and civil society members strongly condemned night raids on shops and warehouses, warning that such measures amount to the economic strangulation of the people of Balochistan.

The conference, organised by the Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam (JUI-F) and presided over by JUI Provincial Deputy Emir and Quetta District Emir Sheikh-ul-Hadith Maulana Abdul Rehman Rafiq, expressed serious concern over the conduct of the local administration, customs and police.

Participants alleged that officials were “looting the shops and warehouse in the darkness without taking the traders into confidence.” The MPC termed these actions illegal and demanded their immediate cessation.

A declaration issued after the gathering stated that the closure of border crossings with neighbouring countries has halted all forms of trade. The statement warned the closure is rendering thousands jobless and pushing millions of families toward poverty.

The MPC demanded the immediate reopening of borders for legal trade and established safeguards to protect traders’ property, stressing that no institution should be allowed to confiscate goods unlawfully.

Labels such actions ‘economic strangulation’ for people of the province

The leaders alleged that only traders in Balochistan are subjected to such practices, calling the treatment “discriminatory and unjust”.

Beyond trade issues, the conference expressed full solidarity with the Grand Alliance of government employees. The MPC endorsed the alliance’s demands, including the implementation of agreed benefits such as the Disparity Reduction Allowance.

Leaders condemned the use of force against peaceful protesters, demanding the immediate release of detained employees and the reinstatement of those dismissed.

Participants also criticised severe gas and power load-shedding, acute water shortages and worsening law and order.

They called for the removal of joint Frontier Corps and police check posts established across Quetta.

The MPC further demanded relief for rickshaw drivers, the restoration of public transport, action against extortion in the gold trade, and the reversal of “no parking” decisions on commercial roads.

Additionally, the group called for the strict enforcement of respect for Ramadan laws and a special Ramadan relief package.

The leadership announced it would present a charter of demands to top provincial authorities, reserving the right to protest if the issues remain unresolved.

Published in Dawn, January 13th, 2026