Terror Attacks
ISLAMABAD: In response to recent terror attacks in Balochistan ahead of the general elections in 2024, Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Sikandar Sultan Raja has issued a directive to elevate security measures across all provinces, on Wednesday.
CEC Raja held crucial telephonic discussions with the Chief Secretaries and Inspector-General of Police (IGP) of each province following consecutive blasts in Balochistan’s Pishin and Qila Saifullah, resulting in the tragic loss of at least 28 lives. Expressing deep sorrow over these attacks, he emphasized the urgent need for addressing such incidents promptly.
To ensure the safety of citizens and electoral processes, Sikandar Sultan Raja mandated the police chiefs and chief secretaries to heighten security alerts. Additionally, he ordered the swift deployment of security personnel, emphasizing the necessity of providing comprehensive security to voters and the offices of district returning officers (DROs) and returning officers (ROs).
The directive comes amidst a surge in terrorist activities, particularly in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) and Balochistan, following the termination of the ceasefire between the government and the outlawed militant group Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan in November 2022.
In a related development, the Senate adopted a resolution, initiated by independent Senator Dilawar Khan, calling for a delay in general elections due to extreme weather conditions in hilly areas and a deteriorating security situation.
However, this resolution faced strong opposition from major political parties, including PPP, PML-N, and PTI. Notably, PPP and PTI issued notices to their senators, Gurdeep Singh and Bahramand Tangi, who abstained from voting during the resolution’s passage.
As Pakistan grapples with security challenges ahead of the 2024 elections, CEC Sikandar Sultan Raja’s proactive measures underscore the commitment to ensuring a safe and secure electoral process.
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