One killed, several injured in Muharram procession clash in Gilgit

GILGIT: At least one person was killed and several others injured in violence over the route of the 8th Muharram procession in the Chamugarh area of Gilgit on Friday.

According to eyewitnesses, participants of the procession from Jalalabad were returning after the culmination of the procession at Maqpoondas when they reached Chamugarh. Their route was blocked, resulting in firing and stone pelting.

Sources claimed that the violence stemmed from a dispute over the route of the procession. As a result, one person was killed, three others – including a police constable – suffered bullet injuries, and several others were injured by other means.

Deputy Inspector General of Police (Range) Raja Mirza Hassan described the situation as “tense,” confirming one casualty and the injuries sustained.  The Provincial Headquarters Hospital’s medical superintendent reported receiving the injured constable.

Following the incident, police and paramilitary forces arrived in the area to control the situation and have taken charge of the region.

‘SITUATION UNDER CONTROL’

According to the district administration, the situation is currently under control, and security forces are on high alert to handle any potential unrest. The administration has urged citizens to cooperate with them in maintaining peace and refrain from spreading rumors.

In a statement , the Gilgit-Baltistan Information Secretary also claimed that the situation in Chamugarh and Jalalabad is now fully under control. “Security agencies, including the Pakistan Army, GB Scouts, Rangers, and the Police, are committed to maintaining peace.”

He expressed pride that the resilient people of Gilgit-Baltistan rejected rumours and set an example of unity and brotherhood.

“We would like to clarify that certain elements are attempting to create fear and panic among the public by spreading fabricated and false news through social media. We urge the public not to believe such rumors and to rely only on credible sources of information. The peace of Gilgit-Baltistan is a shared responsibility. Thanks to the cooperation of the government, security agencies, and the public, the situation remains peaceful, and all sectors of life are proceeding as normal,” the statement said.

The Secretary also extended gratitude to all institutions, officers, personnel, and the public who played a significant role in maintaining peace. “Together, let’s work to make this region peaceful, prosperous, and developed,” he added.