Pakistan: Violent protests continue in Chaman, 20 injured and 45 arrested

Unrest remained in the border town of Chaman in Pakistan’s Balochistan as violent protests and clashes between protesters and law enforcement agencies continued for the third consecutive day, resulting in 20 people, including eight security personnel, getting injured and 45 persons being arrested, Dawn reported.

Passenger train services between Quetta and Chaman also had to be suspended due to security concerns following incidents of protests and clashes.

Despite assurances from tribal elders, protesters extended their demonstrations beyond designated areas, targeting public and private properties with sticks and stones. The unrest stems from discontent against government rules that allow only persons with valid passports and visas to cross the border, a departure from previous practices that allowed passage based on identity cards, Dawn reported.

As a result, business activities halted, banks and government offices closed, further increasing the economic strain. Notably, the National Bank relocated staff to ensure continuity amid the chaos.

Security forces fired tear gas to disperse protesters who attacked law enforcement personnel. Despite the arrests and law enforcement efforts, the situation remains tense, prompting strict warnings against highway blockades keeping vital transit routes between Pakistan and Afghanistan secure.

Attempts to calm the unrest through dialogue have so far had limited success, with protesters demanding the release of detained leaders and resolution of their grievances.

Meanwhile, Balochistan Chief Minister Mir Safraz Bugti chaired a high-level meeting to resolve the crisis, stressing the imperative of upholding the state’s authority and advocating dialogue to address underlying grievances. However, there can be no compromise on the issue of attacks on security forces and damage to property.

Political parties held demonstrations in solidarity with the Chaman protesters, advocating acceptance of the protesters’ demands and condemning the harsh response to the protests.

At the same time, the demand for the formation of a parliamentary committee in the National Assembly to deal with the situation underscored the urgent need for dialogue and de-escalation of tensions. PTI leader Asad Qaiser appealed for a compassionate approach, advocating dialogue instead of violence.

Amid the unrest, the Foreign Office reiterated visa rules for border movement between Pakistan and Afghanistan and stressed the need for strict adherence to visa requirements, Dawn reported.