Representative of the government and the protesters sign an agreement in Quetta. Photo: Express
QUETTA:
The Balochistan government has decided to set up a judicial commission to investigate the Ziarat tragedy after a written agreement with the Ziarat Committee.
The breakthrough came after days of tense negotiations, which were eventually resolved through reconciliation efforts led by Chief Minister Mir Sarfraz Bugti.
For the families of the Ziarat martyrs, the agreement represents a meaningful step towards justice. It also signals the government’s commitment to restoring public confidence and strengthening peace across the province. Both sides pledged to work together for stability and long-term harmony.
The core of the agreement is the independent judicial commission tasked with uncovering the truth behind the incident. Its findings are expected to clarify what happened and guide legal action.
The agreement also calls for a high-level meeting chaired by Chief Minister Bugti, bringing opposition leaders and families of the martyrs to the table. The session will review the province’s security challenges and seek consensus on measures to strengthen peace.
Authorities confirmed that the victims will be formally recognized as martyrs under the government’s policy. Their families will receive financial compensation, aid packages and educational support for children. As a tribute, selected public buildings will be named after the martyrs.
Other measures include strengthening the Balochistan Police in urban centers by expanding manpower, improving training and enhancing operational capacity to address security threats more effectively.
To deal with public complaints on revenue issues, a committee headed by the provincial revenue minister will be formed. It will include civil servants and local elders tasked with reviewing complaints and recommending solutions.
After the signing, Chief Minister Bugti promised that the sacrifices of the Ziarat martyrs would never be forgotten. He emphasized the government’s responsibility to support their families and hailed the Pakistan Army, Frontier Corps, Balochistan Police and other law enforcement agencies for their continued role in safeguarding peace.
