QUETTA: Balochistan, Pakistan’s largest province by area, has passed legislation to strengthen protections against child labour and expand reproductive healthcare rights, alongside measures focused on women’s safety and social welfare.
The Balochistan Assembly approved the Balochistan Employment of Children (Prohibition and Regulation) (Amendment) Bill 2026 and the Balochistan Protection and Promotion of Reproductive Healthcare Rights Bill 2026 during its session on Monday.
The measures mark a significant legislative step towards strengthening protections for vulnerable groups and improving access to healthcare in the southwestern Pakistani province.
Balochistan Advances Social Protection Measures
Lawmakers also approved legislation to construct safe homes in various districts, adding another component to the province’s social protection framework.
The assembly separately adopted a joint resolution calling for effective legislation to prevent acid attacks and strengthen protection for victims.
ALSO READ: Pakistan Security Forces Kill 21 Indian-Sponsored Terrorists in Balochistan
The resolution, presented by MPA Shahida Rauf on behalf of the Women Parliamentary Caucus, followed a recent acid attack involving Dr Mahnoor Nasar. Female lawmakers expressed solidarity with survivors and called for stronger preventive measures.
Security and Water Management Discussed
The assembly also adopted a resolution seeking effective implementation of Pakistan’s National Action Plan to improve law and order and counter terrorism and extremism.
Government and opposition lawmakers discussed security challenges and called for a coordinated strategy, including an in-camera session.
Meanwhile, lawmakers were informed that 886 dams have been completed across Balochistan, while another 223 are under construction.
The Balochistan Water Resources Management Bill 2026 and the Code of Criminal Procedure (Balochistan Amendment) Bill 2026 were referred to relevant standing committees for further deliberations.
The series of legislative measures highlights the provincial government’s efforts to address issues ranging from child protection and women’s rights to healthcare, water management and public security.
