Wheat price hike: Section 144 imposed in Gilgit as protest gains momentum

GILGIT: As protest against surging wheat prices gains momentum, the Gilgit administration has imposed Section 144 on all kinds of processions, rallies, and demonstrations on vital inter-district connecting roads including KKH and JSR for 90 days.

“I, Amir Azam Hamza (DMS) District Magistrate Gilgit, in exercise of powers vested in me under Section 144 of Code of Criminal Procedure, 1898, do hereby prohibit all kinds of assemblies, gatherings, sit-ins, relies, processions demonstrations, Jalsas, dharnas, protests and such similar activities on KKH, JSR, and vital inter-district connecting roads within the territorial jurisdictions of District Gilgit,” reads a notification dated December 25.

The notification issued by Gilgit Deputy Commissioner said that protests and agitations on Karakoram Highway (KKH) and Jaglote-Skardu Road (JSR) have caused serious public uneasiness and discomfort. “The frequent sit-ins and protests on these vital and only mean of communication for all sorts of transportations are likely to have serious socio-economic implications leading to unpleasant public order in the entire region,” it added.

According to the order, in the context of prevailing over all security milieu, it was imperative to impose Section 144 of CrPC 1898 on holding all kinds of assemblies, gatherings, sit-ins, relies, demonstrations, protests and similar activities on KKH, JSR, and vital inter-district connecting roads in District Gilgit to avert any untoward incidents.

“It is essential to ensure security of people and property against any potential threat or untoward activity in the larger interest of public safety, security peace and tranquility,” it added.

In addition to the ban, the District Magistrate has authorized police officers to enforce compliance strictly. The Station House Officers (SHOs) of concerned police stations are empowered to register complaints under Section 188 of the Pakistan Penal Code (PPC) 1860 in writing for the violation of Section 144 of CrPC 1898 imposed under this order.

Shutter-down strike across G-B against withdrawal of wheat subsidy

“This order will remain enforced for a period 90 days from the date of issue,” the notification concluded.

It is important to mention that the Gilgit-Baltistan (GB) government recently announced a significant increase in wheat prices, raising it from Rs20 to Rs36 per kilogram. Initially, the GB government had planned to increase the subsidized wheat rate to Rs52/kg, but following public protests, the decision was revised to Rs36.

However, Awami Action Committee expressed deep concern and anger over the government’s notification regarding the wheat price increase. The Awami Action Committee announced that it would reveal its plan of action on December 31st, after which, they claimed, the incompetent rulers would have no place to hide.