Blue Book Blues Be Gone! BHC ends VIP problem
Blue Book Blues Be Gone! BHC ends VIP problem
Editorial
Editorial

For an extended period, residents of Balochistan’s capital city have been subjected to significant disruptions in their daily lives due to VIP movement protocols. Traffic snarls brought about by elaborate security measures have become a persistent source of frustration.

Access to education and workplaces has been hampered, impacting productivity and livelihoods. These disruptions transcended mere inconvenience; they reflected a disregard for the fundamental rights of ordinary citizens. The 2018 petition filed before the Balochistan High Court brought these concerns to the forefront. The court, led by Acting Chief Justice Mohammad Hashim Kakar and Justice Shaukat Ali Rakhshani, meticulously deliberated on the issue. The verdict acknowledges the undeniable importance of security measures for VIPs. However, it emphasizes the paramount need to strike a balance between these measures and the enshrined rights of citizens as outlined in Article 199 of the Constitution. The Blue Book, which serves as the official guideline for VIP security protocols, must be adhered to, but not at the expense of citizens’ well-being.

The court’s decision underscores a critical point: security should not come at the cost of hindering educational pursuits, the cornerstone of societal progress. The verdict serves as a powerful reminder that unfettered traffic flow is not a luxury but a necessity for economic activity and the sustenance of livelihoods. It compels those in power to acknowledge that the true essence of governance lies in serving the common good, not in wielding power that disrupts the lives of the very people they are meant to represent. Moving forward, the implementation of this verdict will be crucial. It requires a concerted effort from all stakeholders – the government, law enforcement agencies, and the public – to ensure its effective execution. Transparency, cooperation, and a commitment to upholding citizens’ rights should guide these efforts. Indeed, this verdict is not just a legal decision; it’s a reaffirmation of democratic principles and the rule of law. It reaffirms that in a democracy, no one, regardless of status or position, is above the law. It underscores the importance of balancing security concerns with the rights and freedoms of individuals.

The Balochistan High Court’s verdict on VIP movement protocol is a laudable step towards ensuring that the rights of ordinary citizens are not sidelined. The wheels of justice turn slowly, but when they do turn, they can profoundly impact the lives of citizens. Such is the case with the recent verdict pronounced by the Balochistan High Court on the longstanding issue of VIP movement protocol. After years of deliberation, the Court has spoken, recognizing the fundamental rights of citizens amidst the necessity for security measures. It serves as a potent symbol of the judiciary’s unwavering commitment to upholding the principles of justice and ensuring that the voices of the people are not silenced. As we navigate the complexities of balancing security concerns with individual liberties, this verdict serves as a beacon of hope, illuminating the path towards a more just and equitable society in Balochistan. The onus now lies on all stakeholders to translate this legal victory into a tangible reality for the people of Balochistan. The Balochistan High Court’s verdict on the VIP movement protocol is a commendable step towards safeguarding citizens’ rights. It’s a testament to the judiciary’s role in upholding the principles of justice and ensuring that the voices of the people are heard. As we navigate the complexities of security and individual liberties, let this verdict serve as a beacon of hope for a more just and equitable society.