Quetta, Pakistan — Federal Minister for Kashmir and Gilgit-Baltistan Affairs Amir Muqam has called for a transparent inquiry into a coal mine explosion that killed 34 people in the Balochistan province. The incident, suspected to be caused by methane gas, occurred in Sorange, approximately 50 kilometers from Quetta, the provincial capital. Rescue operations continued through the night as authorities worked to recover victims. The minister urged the Balochistan government to ensure a thorough and public investigation into the disaster (arabnews.pk).
In separate developments, protesters in Lahore were detained by police during a rally in support of Pakistan-administered Kashmir. The demonstrations, organized by activists of the Haqooq-i-Khalq Party, aimed to show solidarity with the Joint Action Committee of AJK. While some activists were initially arrested, a party spokesperson confirmed that all detainees had been released under the condition that no further demonstrations would take place on Saturday (dawn.com).
The situation in the region remains tense, with ongoing tensions between local authorities and pro-Kashmir activists. The coal mine tragedy has drawn national attention, highlighting safety concerns in the mining sector. Meanwhile, the protests underscore the continued political and social dynamics surrounding the Kashmir issue.
