GWADAR, August 12: Balochistan Chief Minister Mir Sarfraz Bugti arrived in Gwadar on Wednesday to a warm reception from administrative officials and a guard of honor presented by a smartly turned-out police contingent.

Shortly after his arrival, the Chief Minister held a detailed meeting with a delegation of the All-Parties Gwadar Committee and representatives of various political parties. The discussion focused extensively on the regional situation, public grievances, and development challenges facing the port city.

During the meeting, political representatives apprised the Chief Minister of the basic problems and hardships being faced by the local population. They demanded the provision of fundamental civic amenities and insisted that tests and interviews for Grade-IV government vacancies be conducted at the local level to ensure greater access for local youth.

Taking immediate cognizance of these demands, Chief Minister Bugti issued directives to hold tests for Grade-IV posts at the district level across all districts of Balochistan, including Gwadar. He reaffirmed that recruitment against the district-wise quota would be strictly ensured to guarantee that local candidates receive their rightful share in government jobs.

"Under no circumstances will anyone be allowed to usurp the rights of local aspirants," the Chief Minister declared. "Merit, transparency, and strict adherence to the district quota will be the guiding principles in all recruitment processes," he added.

CM Bugti also took serious notice of complaints regarding the appointment of non-local individuals on Grade-IV positions in the Fisheries Department and the Forest Department in Gwadar. He immediately ordered the Chief Minister's Inspection Team (CMIT) to conduct a thorough and transparent investigation into the matter and submit a comprehensive report based on facts. He further directed that if any violations of rules and regulations were proven at any level, legal action should be initiated against those responsible.

The Chief Minister emphasized that his visit was aimed at listening to all political parties and stakeholders to resolve the problems confronting the people of Gwadar. "Resolving public issues is the government's responsibility, and public complaints and legitimate demands will be addressed promptly and effectively," he said.

In a significant announcement, CM Bugti stated that the government would review the record of the past 20 years to examine how many resources were spent on Gwadar's development and what impact these expenditures have had on people's lives. "Claims have been made in every era regarding Gwadar's development. Now we will look at the actual figures and assess the real benefits delivered to the public," he remarked.

He made it clear that development in Gwadar is not limited to mega projects alone, stressing that providing basic civic amenities such as clean drinking water, healthcare, education, and employment to the local population is equally essential. "The fruits of development projects in Gwadar must reach the local population. The true purpose of development is to bring tangible improvement in people's lives," he asserted.

CM Bugti emphasized that providing employment opportunities to the youth of Gwadar and protecting the legitimate rights of local people is the government's foremost responsibility. He assured that no injustice would be done to anyone and that the rights of local candidates would be fully safeguarded.

He further stated that the government would continue its consultation process with political parties, elected representatives, and local stakeholders to resolve public issues. "Gwadar is a vital hub for Balochistan's development, and the local population must be made equal partners in the development taking place here," he said.

The Chief Minister concluded by saying that practical steps would be taken to address the people's problems, not just announcements. He directed relevant officials to ensure effective monitoring of development projects, transparent utilization of resources, and prioritizing public welfare at all costs.

The meeting was attended by Member of National Assembly Malik Shah Gorgij, Member of Provincial Assembly Maulana Hidayat-ur-Rehman, Provincial Ministers Mir Zia Langau and Sardar Faisal Khan Jamali, tribal and political leader Mir Sajid Dashti, Principal Secretary Imran Zarkoon, Deputy Commissioner Gwadar Naqeebullah Kakakhel, and other concerned administrative officers.

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