On March 22, 2024, political activists from Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) and Gilgit-Baltistan (GB) gathered outside the United Nations headquarters in Geneva to protest against Pakistan’s continued presence in these disputed territories, contrary to UN Security Council resolutions.
Professor Sajjad Raja, a prominent political activist from PoK and Chairman of the National Equality Party JKGBL, addressed the gathering, stating, “We have assembled here today to bring attention to the egregious human rights violations in PoJK and Gilgit-Baltistan. For 77 years, the people of these regions have been denied basic human rights and fundamental freedoms, living in conditions akin to animal existence. We demand that Pakistan withdraw its forces from PoJK and Gilgit-Baltistan, as advised by the United Nations, and restore the rights and dignity of the people.”
Wheat Subsidy Crisis
The wheat subsidy has been a vital lifeline for the residents of Gilgit-Baltistan since the 1970s, enabling them to purchase wheat at a quarter of the global price. This subsidy has provided essential relief to the region, which faces harsh climatic conditions and limited agricultural land.
However, in January 2024, the government increased wheat prices by 80%, from PKR 20 to PKR 36 per kg (0.13 USD), with plans to further raise the price to PKR 52 per kg (0.19 USD). Furthermore, the interim government approved the withdrawal of the wheat subsidy for 40% of Gilgit-Baltistan’s population on February 2, 2024, exacerbating economic distress for many families.
Widespread protests have erupted across the region, with residents demanding the reinstatement of the subsidy. Farmers have expressed their dire situation, stating, “We already face challenging conditions with limited resources. The removal of the wheat subsidy feels like a death sentence. How can we survive with these soaring prices?”
The drastic price increase has severely affected households, making it difficult for them to afford basic necessities. The protests have highlighted not only the economic implications but also the broader issues of governance and regional neglect, sparking widespread concern and demands for action.
Taxation Without Representation
The introduction of new taxes in Gilgit-Baltistan has exacerbated existing grievances, prompting widespread protests led by the Awami Action Committee (AAC). The AAC’s demands highlight the region’s exploitation, including opposition to the Gilgit Baltistan Finance Act 2023, which proposes new taxes on tourism, the region’s primary source of revenue, and rejection of austerity measures imposed on government employees.
Despite not being constitutionally part of Pakistan, Gilgit-Baltistan residents pay millions in indirect taxes to Islamabad, drawing parallels to the historical demand for “no taxation without representation.” The AAC demands inclusion in the National Finance Commission to secure a share of the national budget. However, this is at odds with Pakistan’s government policy, which treats Gilgit-Baltistan as a disputed territory, leaving the region in a state of limbo.
The situation has sparked concerns about the region’s representation and rights, with many arguing that Gilgit-Baltistan deserves greater autonomy and recognition.
Electricity Crisis
The electricity crisis in Gilgit-Baltistan remains a pressing issue, despite repeated promises and announcements. The region’s dream of becoming self-sufficient in electricity remains elusive, with the situation deteriorating over time. Currently, Gilgit-Baltistan is facing a severe electricity shortage, which has far-reaching consequences for its socio-economic development.
The region experiences daily power outages of over 20 hours, severely impacting daily life and business activities. Students are unable to prepare for exams or attend online classes, while many online entrepreneurs have lost their livelihoods. Widespread protests have erupted across Gilgit-Baltistan against the prolonged electricity load-shedding, with demonstrators accusing the government of prioritizing VIPs with 24-hour electricity supply through special power lines, while the general population suffers.
Land Grabs and Chinese Influence
The China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) has sparked controversy in Gilgit-Baltistan, where land grabs have become a significant concern. The Pakistani government has been acquiring land for undisclosed CPEC projects, leading to widespread protests from local communities. The land seizures are often justified as necessary for CPEC projects, while a large military presence has been deployed to protect Chinese nationals in the region.
The military has been accused of using infrastructure projects, such as roads, military bases, and communication networks, as a pretext to acquire land without proper compensation or consultation with local communities. Allegedly, the military collaborates with civil authorities to acquire land through questionable means, including manipulating land records, exerting political pressure, and influencing decision-making processes.
Furthermore, the leasing of forest land and rest houses to private business owners from Punjab Province has exacerbated the issue, with allegations of bypassing legal procedures and leasing land owned by individual entities rather than the government. This has raised concerns about the transparency and accountability of land acquisitions in Gilgit-Baltistan.
Conclusion
The prolonged history of oppression and denial of basic rights has led to a growing sentiment among Gilgit-Baltistan’s residents to seek solace in India’s democratic framework and development model. A significant section of the population now aspires to join India, hoping to find better governance, protection of their rights, and an improved quality of life. This shift in sentiment marks a profound transformation in the region’s political landscape, driven by decades of unfulfilled promises and systemic exploitation.
The ongoing protests in Gilgit-Baltistan underscore a deepening desire for autonomy and self-governance, as the region grapples with significant socio-economic challenges. The growing demand for change reflects a collective aspiration for a more equitable and just future, where the rights and dignity of the people are respected and protected.
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