Gilgit-Baltistan celebrates 76th Independence Day

GILGIT: The 76th Independence Day of Gilgit-Baltistan was celebrated with traditional zeal and fervour on Wednesday.

The Independence Day of Gilgit-Baltistan is marked on this day as the Gilgit Scouts liberated their homeland from the Dogra Raj in 1947 and arrested governor Ghansara Singh.

The commemorative events commenced with a flag-raising ceremony at the historic Chinar Bagh in Gilgit, where Chief Minister Haji Gulbar Khan was the chief guest. Caretaker Prime Minister Anwarul Haq Kakar was scheduled to attend the event as a chief guest. However, he postponed his visit due to “bad weather conditions”.

Speaking on the occasion, Gulbar Khan, emphasized the significance of the day as a moment to honour their martyrs and victors. “Today, we commemorate the day our heroes valiantly liberated this land from Dogra rule without any external assistance. We must pledge to always remember the sacrifices made by our forefathers,” Khan stated.

Leadership crisis in Gilgit-Baltistan

The ceremony was also attended by GB Governor Syed Mehdi Shah, force commander Lt-Gen Shahid Imtiaz, Police Inspector General Afzal Mahmood Butt, Chief Secretary Abrar Ahmad Mirza, civil and military officers and relatives of martyrs and Ghazis.

Earlier, the G-B governor, the chief minister, and the force commander laid floral wreaths at the Yadgar-i-Shuhada and offered prayers for the martyrs of independence.

Subsequently, the main Independence Day event was organized by the Pakistan army at the FCNA helipad in Jutial Gilgit.

The ceremony showcased various cultural performances, including regional dances and songs presented by school and college students from across Gilgit-Baltistan. Additionally, cultural floats representing different divisions of GB, including Gilgit, Baltistan, Astore, and Diamer, were displayed, reflecting the diverse culture of the entire region.

This was followed by free-fall jumping and a polo match at the Wahab Shaheed Polo Ground, attended by the Governor and Chief Minister of GB. This historic match, the first-ever to be held at night, was illuminated by floodlights, creating a day-like ambiance. The match concluded with a distribution of awards among the players and a grand fireworks display.

Separately, Independence Day festivities were also organized in various regions of Gilgit-Baltistan, including Skardu, Chilas, Hunza, Gahkuch, Astore, Khaplu, Nagar and Shigar.

PM’ Kakar felicitation message

In his message on the occasion, Caretaker Prime Minister Kakar extended his warm felicitations to the people of Gilgit-Baltistan. He recalled the historic valour displayed by the region’s inhabitants against the Dogra Raja, led by stalwarts Captain Mirza Hasan Khan and Subedar Major Babur.

Highlighting the significance of the day, the interim prime minister remarked that Gilgit-Baltistan’s independence stands as a testament to the nation’s pride and a monumental achievement. He emphasized the region’s unwavering commitment, stating their unparalleled sacrifices underscored their determination for Pakistan’s growth and stability.

Kakar further praised the indomitable spirit of the Gilgit-Baltistan people, asserting their clear stance against adversaries. He reiterated that the region has always been, and will remain, an integral part of Pakistan. The premier assured that the government remains steadfast in its dedication to the peace, prosperity, and development of Gilgit-Baltistan.

Kakar said the people of GB were fortunate to be blessed with freedom, while the Muslims in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK) still suffering the atrocities of Indian authorities.

The caretaker prime minister also reiterated Pakistan’s unwavering commitment to supporting the Kashmiri cause, vowing to persistently provide full political, diplomatic, and moral backing until they achieve their right to self-determination in line with UN resolutions.