G-B govt faces backlash over reception of Jamal Raisani by girl guides

GILGIT: The government of Gilgit-Baltistan is facing a strong backlash over the reception of Baloch politician and Member of the National Assembly Nawab Jamal Khan Raisani by Girl Guides during a program in Gilgit.

Raisani was invited to a youth conference held in Gilgit where his arrival was marked by a line of Ismaili Girl Guides, a gesture that has ignited widespread criticism on social media. Many have condemned the act, viewing it as an affront to the dignity of the girls and contrary to the principles of their faith.

A writer from Gilgit-Baltistan, Aziz Ali Dad, voiced his concerns, stating, “Gilgit-Baltistan has become a repository for substandard and inferior products from the south, mirroring how the rest of Pakistan sends its subpar human resources and ideas here. This is degrading our minds and society into a scrapyard.”
He urged the youth to protect themselves from the human drones and lackeys arriving from the south; otherwise, they risk living their lives as mere imitations, devoid of originality.

Social activist, Inayat Baig, also took to social media, criticizing the event, and said “Making innocent girls stand in line to welcome a third-rate politician is not only an insult to their dignity but also goes against the Imam’s vision. Youth must recognize the people who bow before rulers instead of following the guidance of their spiritual leader.”

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Nawab Jamal Khan Raisani has been subjected to intense criticism since his arrival in Gilgit. Young people on social media have held federal political leaders accountable for the ongoing situation in Balochistan, arguing that Raisani should prioritize addressing the issues in his home province rather than making visits to Gilgit.

While talking to HUM News English, Special Assistant to Chief Minister Eiman Shah stated that Raisani was invited by the Ministry of Youth Affairs for the conference due to his status as the youngest member of the National Assembly. Shah clarified that he arrived late to the program and was unaware of the reception details. He attended the program, delivered his speech, and then left. It was only later, after seeing videos on social media, that he realized the guest had been received by Girl Guides.
Shah further mentioned that he has spoken to the relevant officials, and an investigation is underway to identify those responsible. He acknowledged that the act was against the region’s norms and Islamic teachings, emphasizing that women receiving a man by standing in rows is inappropriate.

Shah assured that action would be taken against the individuals involved, though he humorously noted that implementing the Anti-Terrorism Act (ATA) would not be possible but hinted that suitable measures would be considered.

However, the Special Assistant to the Chief Minister on Youth Affairs, Zabiullah, defended the act, downplaying the controversy. He cited examples of flag hoisting ceremonies at Khunjerab Pass, cultural shows, and other events in Islamabad and Gilgit, where girls participate in receiving guests and performing dances. He argued that if women can participate in such events, there should be no issue with them receiving a guest in this context.