Journalists Barred from Entering Secretariat Without Prior Notice

Staff Correspondent

Restrictions on entering the Secretariat have been imposed amid the ongoing protests by Secretariat employees demanding the repeal of the new ordinance on public service reforms. However, without any prior announcement, the restrictions have also been enforced for journalists.

On Tuesday morning, representatives from various media outlets attempting to collect news at the Secretariat were stopped at the gates. None were allowed entry, it has been reported.

However, Secretariat officials, employees, and invited participants in meetings faced no such obstacles. Even retired employees were able to enter regularly by showing their ID cards.

As part of the ongoing protests, Secretariat employees observed their fourth day of demonstrations on Tuesday. Around 10:30 AM, SWAT and BGB personnel were seen deployed at Gate No. 2 of the Secretariat. Nearby areas witnessed notable activity by RAB, APBn, and other forces. Two armored vehicles were stationed in front of the main gate.

Earlier, the Ministry of Home Affairs announced that visitor entry to the Secretariat would be completely restricted for the day.

When asked about the reasons behind barring journalists, a senior police official responsible for Secretariat security stated that he was following instructions from higher authorities. However, he declined to provide further details.

No specific information was available from relevant sources regarding when journalists would be allowed normal access again.