Helpless Journalists of Quetta and a Union Burdened by Privileges

The state of journalism in Balochistan is such that an impartial analysis would leave one unsure whether to laugh or cry. The sanctity of Quetta Press Club has been violated once again, and police brutality has peaked, yet the so-called torchbearers of journalism remain silent as if nothing has happened. Apart from a formal statement, no concrete action has been taken. The pressing question is: if someone seizes control of the press club tomorrow, will these silent spectators do anything about it?

Balochistan Union of Journalists – Just a Name?

At the very least, the Balochistan Union of Journalists (BUJ) must issue a protest call to uphold its name. Otherwise, it should accept that it exists merely for ceremonial participation in official events. If the union cannot raise its voice for its fellow journalists, then what purpose does it serve? Or is its real function simply to enjoy the privileges and benefits granted through government favor?

The attack on Quetta Press Club should have been a wake-up call. Instead, it seems destined to be buried in silence, much like past incidents. The very journalists whose duty is to expose oppression are now writing tales of their helplessness.

Government’s Agenda: Control or Cripple Journalism

The government’s policy has always been clear—either control journalism in Balochistan or weaken it to the extent that it becomes ineffective. When police brutality reaches the doors of the press club, it signifies an intentional strategy to keep journalists powerless.

This is the same government that boasts of press freedom yet employs every possible tactic to suppress journalists. From pressurizing media houses to entangling journalists in unnecessary legal troubles and now storming a sacred institution like the press club—everything points to one question: Is journalism only acceptable when it serves the government’s interests? If this continues, independent journalism in Balochistan may soon become a thing of the past.

The Path Ahead: Silence or Resistance?

Journalists today stand at a crossroads. They can either wrap themselves in the comfort of privileges and remain silent or rise against this apathy. If the Balochistan Union of Journalists continues its silence, it may as well be renamed a government-backed union.

The attack on Quetta Press Club is not just an isolated incident—it is a warning. If journalists fail to act now, they may soon struggle even to protect their profession and identity. The government’s stance is evident, but have journalists accepted their helplessness? This question remains unanswered.

Published in The Gwadar Post, 01 March 2025.