Protests Erupt in Quetta Over Police Raid at Bolan Medical College
In Quetta, student unions held a press conference to condemn the police raid at Bolan Medical College (BMC) hostel. The police used tear gas and arrested several students, including females, sparking outrage. The unions criticized the police for overstepping their authority and ignoring cultural sensitivities of the Baloch and Pashtun communities. They described the raid as a deliberate act of aggression.
A minor altercation among students was being resolved through dialogue when the police intervened aggressively, escalating the situation. The unions accused the police of using the incident as an excuse to raid the hostel, where they allegedly beat and arrested Baloch and Pashtun students. Protests for the release of detained students were met with tear gas and baton charges. Reports indicated mistreatment of female students, with some being verbally abused.
Many students were injured or lost consciousness during the clashes, and some were forcibly taken into police custody. Although some female students were released, others remain detained. The unions claimed the police targeted young Baloch men based on their traditional attire, inciting division between Baloch and Pashtun students.
The unions demanded the immediate release of all detained students, dismissal of false charges, reopening of BMC hostels, and accountability for those responsible. They warned of widespread protests if demands were not met by nightfall.
Doubts Revealed
Quetta -: Quetta is a city in Pakistan. It is the capital of the Balochistan province, which is located in the southwestern part of the country.
Police Raid -: A police raid is when police officers enter a place suddenly and by force to look for something illegal or to arrest people. In this case, the police entered the Bolan Medical College hostel.
Bolan Medical College -: Bolan Medical College is a medical school in Quetta, Pakistan. It is where students study to become doctors and other medical professionals.
Tear Gas -: Tear gas is a chemical weapon that causes tears and pain in the eyes. It is often used by police to control crowds during protests or riots.
Student Unions -: Student unions are groups formed by students to represent their interests and rights. They often organize activities and speak up for students in schools and colleges.
Cultural Sensitivities -: Cultural sensitivities refer to being aware and respectful of the traditions and customs of a particular group of people. In this context, it means understanding and respecting the local culture in Quetta.
Accountability -: Accountability means being responsible for one’s actions and being ready to explain or justify them. The student unions want the police to take responsibility for their actions during the raid.
