Balochistan Assembly rejects workplace harassment amend bill

QUETTA: The Balochistan Assembly on Monday rejected another proposed amendment bill aimed at addressing workplace harassment against women, as it failed to pass due to opposition resistance. Whereas, a resolution concerning the preservation of the province’s cultural heritage was unanimously passed.

The Assembly session was chaired by Speaker Abdul Khaliq Achakzai. A resolution by MPA Nawabzada Zarain Magsi proposing measures to protect Balochistan’s cultural heritage was passed without opposition. Later, Dr. Rubaba Buledi, the Chief Minister’s Advisor on Women Development, presented the amendment bill on workplace harassment of women. However, the assembly rejected the bill. Opposition members argued that the bill should have first been sent to the Standing Committee on Women’s Development.

Dr. Abdul Malik Baloch of the National Party remarked that the rejection of a government-sponsored motion amounted to a vote of no confidence in the government. Dr. Rubaba Buledi expressed disappointment, noting that while the assembly was supporting cultural preservation, it was simultaneously rejecting legislation intended to protect women. The Balochistan Assembly was adjourned until 3pm on May 7.