Balochistan Chief Minister Dr Abdul Malik said that his government would take a stern action against elements threatening private schools in Panjgor district.
All private schools and English language centers are closed for the last 10 days following threats by a little-known militant group opposed to western-style and co-education.
The group distributed threatening pamphlets, forcing private school owners and language centers to go on an indefinite strike.
Thousands of students, mostly girls, took to the streets in Panjgor district and called for protection from the government.
“Nobody will be allowed to prevent girls and children from going to schools in Panjgor or any other part of Balochistan,” chief minister said. “Our government will take a stern action against such elements,” he said.
Despite the chief minister’s assurance, tension and fear grips Panjgor.
“I was driving my car when I was stopped by gunmen who opened fire. Although my children and I survived the shooting, my vehicle was set on fire,” a school owner said.
On the other hand, Balochistan Home Minister Sarfraz Bugti insisted that no school was closed in Panjgor.
“Let me clarify that state machinery is active. I can assure that no school is closed in Panjgor,” he claimed.
