The Gilgit-Baltistan government has found itself grappling with a mounting wave of unrest within the region, leading to a contentious decision to call upon the military for assistance. However, this move has not been without controversy, as the home department of the region dismisses these reports as "baseless." The intricate nature of this situation warrants a closer examination.
Initially, reports indicated that the region's Parliamentary Peace Committee, responsible for making determinations regarding law and order, took the decisive step on a Friday.
This culminated in the government's resolution to implement Section 144 in Diamer's Chilas, effectively forbidding the display of weapons, aerial firing, religious congregations, and any efforts to obstruct highways in protest. Furthermore, the decision encompassed the deployment of Rangers, G-B Scouts, and Frontier Corps personnel across major urban centers within the region.
In response to the unrest, authorities opted to temporarily suspend 4G broadband services in the area, while 2G services continued to function. This move was prompted by the recent tumult generated by protests in Chilas. The focal point of these demonstrations centered on the blockading of the Karakoram Highway and Babusar Pass for an extended period, with protestors demanding the apprehension of a religious leader from Skardu due to his alleged incendiary statements.
The situation in Gilgit-Baltistan, characterized by the decision to enlist the army's aid amidst disputes and the subsequent suspension of 4G services, underscores the complex and sensitive nature of the region's political and social landscape. Discrepancies between official statements and media reports add an additional layer of intrigue to the ongoing events. As the unrest persists, the region remains a focal point for those seeking a deeper understanding of the dynamics at play within Gilgit-Baltistan