Syed Ali Shah:
Quetta — January 7: In a rare public gesture of compassion, Balochistan Chief Minister Mir Sarfraz Bugti met rickshaw driver Abdul Nabi Mengal, hugged him, and announced financial assistance for the purchase of a new rickshaw — after the driver set his vehicle on fire in despair over alleged mistreatment by a traffic police officer.
The emotional meeting came after the incident on Airport Road in Quetta, where Abdul Nabi — reportedly under severe stress — burned his rickshaw in protest. The act followed what he described as harsh and disrespectful behavior by a traffic officer.
According to the Chief Minister’s Office, Sarfraz Bugti immediately ordered the suspension of the officer involved and directed a transparent inquiry into the incident. He said misuse of authority and misconduct toward citizens would not be tolerated under any circumstances.
Bugti reassured the driver that the provincial government stands with working-class citizens, especially those struggling to earn daily livelihoods. “Police officers are meant to serve the people and protect their dignity. Any officer who deviates from these duties will face strict action,” he said.
During the meeting, the Chief Minister embraced Abdul Nabi, consoled him, and symbolically kissed his forehead — signaling support and empathy. He also approved immediate financial assistance to help the driver recover his livelihood by purchasing a new rickshaw.
Bugti emphasized that the government is committed to preventing such incidents in the future and will take effective measures to ensure accountability and respectful policing across the province.
The inquiry into the incident is now underway, and authorities have vowed that findings will determine further disciplinary action.
