QUETTA, May 7 — Life across Balochistan was severely disrupted on Wednesday as a complete shutter-down strike was observed in Quetta and other districts. The protest, organized by the Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-Fazl (JUI-F), was aimed at the provincial government’s recent crackdown and raids on religious seminaries. Senator Maulana Abdul Wasey, the party’s provincial chief, hailed the strike as a success, noting that business centers, malls, and shops remained closed throughout the day. While some shops attempted to open early in the morning, JUI-F activists reportedly forced their closure, leading to several brief detentions by the police.
Quick Facts
- A province-wide strike shuttered markets and reduced traffic in Quetta and beyond.
- JUI-F is protesting government raids on unregistered religious seminaries.
- The party has announced a boycott of all government functions and meetings.
- Protest rallies were held in major districts including Khuzdar, Kalat, Ziarat, and Mastung.
- Nearly two dozen workers were briefly arrested in Quetta for forcibly closing shops.
- A massive central protest gathering is scheduled for May 10 in the provincial capital.
جمعیت کی کال پر بلوچستان بھر میں شٹر ڈاﺅن، چھوٹے بڑے کاروباری مراکز، مارکیٹیں اور دکانیں بند رہیں، متعدد رہنما گرفتاری کے بعد رہا https://t.co/rerN8YAflP #Balochistan #Quetta #Khuzdar #Mastung #Kalat #Chaman #Zhob @juipakofficial pic.twitter.com/DgLoOyqLVe
— Daily Intekhab (@Intekhabhd) May 6, 2026
The strike reflects a deepening standoff between the JUI-F and the Balochistan administration, which has defended the raids as part of a move to regulate unregistered educational institutions. In response, JUI-F leadership has demanded an immediate end to the crackdown and a formal apology. Rallies across the province also became platforms for broader grievances, with speakers criticizing the government over rising inflation, administrative corruption, and the deteriorating security situation in the region.
Maulana Wasey emphasized that this strike marks only the beginning of their movement. He announced that supporters from all corners of the province are expected to converge on Quetta this Sunday for a major demonstration. As tensions simmer, local traders’ associations have expressed concern over the economic impact of the shutdowns, though many complied with the strike call to avoid confrontation. The state remains on alert as it balances law enforcement priorities with the escalating political opposition.
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