Independent Report
Quetta, December 9, 2025: The Balochistan government’s decision to allocate residential plots to journalists of the Quetta Press Club has sparked widespread debate across media circles in the province. Journalists from various districts have expressed concerns over the move.
District reporters from areas including Usta Muhammad, Jafarabad, Naseerabad, Sohbatpur Jhal Magsi, Kachhi, Turbat, Khuzdar, Noshki, Sibi, Loralai, Zhob, and others have stressed that they are equally part of Balochistan’s media landscape. However, government incentives have consistently been limited to Quetta Press Club members. They questioned why, if welfare initiatives are necessary, a uniform policy is not extended to journalists across the province.
Several journalist organizations have urged the government to expand the plot allocation scheme to deserving and permanent reporters from all districts, while also including DGPR offices and local newspaper editors.
Abdullah Magsi, former president of the Usta Muhammad Press Club, highlighted that journalists in Balochistan already face economic hardships, security challenges, and limited resources. He warned that unequal distribution of benefits could further demotivate media personnel. He appealed to the government to establish a comprehensive and transparent welfare policy covering all districts on an equitable basis.
