QUETTA: JUI-F Balochistan chief Maulana Abdul Wasey said on Sunday that his party was being punished for upholding the supremacy of the Constitution, protecting democratic values and pursuing a peaceful political struggle.

Speaking at a party workers` meeting, he said the party would never abandon its peaceful struggle to safeguard the Constitution, the rule of law, parliament and the democratic rights ofthe people.

He regretted that hurdles were being created for those raising democratic voices, while attempts were being made to suppress those highlighting public grievances.

Maulana Wasey said Balochistan was rich in naturalresources, mineral reserves and natural gas. However, he said it was regrettable that despite these resources, the province`s people continued to be `deprive d of basic facilities, including gas`.

Severe hardships Residents faced severe hardships during winter and were forced to rely on expensive alternatives to meet their domestic needs, he added.

The JUI-F provincial chief said `depriving the people of Balochistan of their fundamental rights` and `denying them a fair share` of the benefits generated from the province`s resources was `unacceptable`.

He emphasised that the local population had the first right to these resources and that thestate was responsible for providing basic facilities, including education, healthcare, employment, electricity, gas and clean drinking water.

He demanded improvements in the gas supply system across Balochistan, an end to unannounced gas loadshedding and shortages, and an end to discriminatory treatment of the province`s residents. He also called for ensuring their constitutional and legal rights.

Maulana Wasey said Balochistan`s problems could not be resolved through announcements and promises alone. He stressed the need for a serious strategy, practical measures and consultation with the people`s elected representatives.

-Saleem Shahid