Quetta: More than 100 government employees who were detained in Quetta and Machh jails have been released following successful negotiations between the Balochistan provincial government and the Grand Alliance, officials confirmed on Tuesday.
According to official sources, the employees were released after both sides reached an understanding aimed at easing tensions and restoring normal administrative and academic activities across the province. The detained employees had been arrested on January 20 and 21 during protests linked to the Grand Alliance’s demands.
Among those released are senior leaders of the Grand Alliance, including Qudoos Kakar, along with dozens of other government employees. Officials said the released individuals belong to Quetta as well as several other districts of Balochistan.
The arrests had sparked strong reactions from employee unions, leading the Grand Alliance to announce a boycott of Middle Standard examinations across the province. However, following the release of the detainees, the alliance has withdrawn its boycott call.
Speaking on the matter, Adviser to the Chief Minister Shahid Rind stated that Middle Standard examinations would now be held on schedule across Balochistan, except in Noshki, where the situation is being reviewed separately.
Government representatives said dialogue and mutual understanding played a key role in resolving the issue, emphasizing that the provincial administration remains committed to addressing employee concerns through peaceful negotiations.
The release of the detained employees has been welcomed by unions and civil society groups, who expressed hope that future disputes would be resolved through dialogue rather than arrests, ensuring stability in governance and the education system.
