DC Gilgit claims situation in GB resolved
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Deputy Commissioner (DC) Amir Azam Hamza of Gilgit said that following an inflammatory speech by a religious leader on Friday, a tense situation arose. Afterward, the government held negotiations with religious scholars, which led to the cancellation of the planned protest on Sunday, and the situation is now peaceful.
On September 1st (Friday), tensions escalated between Sunni and Shia groups in Gilgit-Baltistan following an inflammatory speech by a religious leader. The government then convened a special meeting.
After the meeting led by Chief Minister Gilgit-Baltistan Haji Gulbar Khan on September 1, 2023, the Interior Ministry immediately imposed Section 144 to prohibit illegal gatherings and block roads. Strict action was announced against those who violated it.
Additionally, to maintain law and order and protect the public, the decision was made to request military support and deploy Rangers, GB Scouts, and FC personnel in major cities of the region.
On the other hand, another religious group announced a protest on September 3. However, according to Deputy Commissioner Gilgit Amir Azam Hamza, negotiations were held with religious scholars, and it was assured that no protests would take place.
He stated that the result of negotiations is that people are willing to cooperate, and the responsibility for resolving the issue has been entrusted to the government. DC Gilgit clarified to Independent Urdu that rumors and false news are being spread with exaggerated speculations regarding the situation.
Furthermore, Chief Minister of Gilgit-Baltistan Haji Gulbar Khan is chairing a high-level meeting on September 1, 2023 (Gilgit-Baltistan government).
DC Gilgit also corrected that the army is not being called in but is on standby for the observance of Imam Hussein's 40th day mourning, which falls on September 7. The use of the term "standby" was misinterpreted as a military call, whereas it is a regular practice for the observance of Imam Hussein's 40th day.
According to district administration, police, Rangers, and Scouts have been deployed to ensure public safety and timely control of any unexpected situations. On the other hand, Federal Minister for Information Murtaza Solangi has also declared that Gilgit-Baltistan is in a peaceful state. Schools, colleges, markets, and roads are open, reflecting a sense of normalcy. Peaceful protests occasionally occur in response to some religious and sectarian provocations, but the overall security situation is stable.
Murtaza Solangi further clarified that there have been no military deployments, and the Pakistani army is prepared for community protection during events like Imam Hussein's 40th-day rituals in the upcoming week.
Meanwhile, the police in Gilgit, Diamer, Skardu, and other areas have registered FIRs and arrested individuals who have been spreading false rumors and creating a hateful atmosphere.
