PM weighs options to tackle Balochistan issue

QUETTA: Options available to the government under the Constitution were weighed to address the crisis in Balochistan following demands for the army to be summoned to the province by the bereaved families of Quetta bombing victims.

Prime Minister Raja Pervaiz Ashraf, who arrived in Quetta on Sunday held consultations with coalition partners and other stakeholders to arrive at a consensus decision over the issue.

Pakistan Muslim League-Q President Chaudhry Shujaat Hussain, Muttahida Qaumi Movement (MQM) Chief Altaf Hussain and Awami National Party leader Asfandyar Wali Khan have recommended imposition of a governor's rule in the province.

However, the members of the provincial assembly have rejected any unconstitutional move and favoured an in-house change.

It is essential to mention here that at least 100 people were killed on Thursday in twin suicide attacks in an area which is dominated by the Hazara community in Quetta.

The tragedy has led to nationwide protests in several cities of the country against the ongoing wave of sectarian violence.