Protests in GB temporarily halted as govt meets two key demands

GILGIT: Prolonged protests in Gilgit-Baltistan (GB) have been temporarily halted for two to three weeks after the government addressed two out of fifteen demands put forth by the Awami Action Committee (ACC).

The Government of Gilgit-Baltistan announced on Monday that it would suspend the collection of newly introduced levies and fees outlined in the Gilgit-Baltistan Finance Act, 2023.

This decision aims to alleviate the burden on the public and support key sectors. However, only the fees and levies introduced for the first time in the Finance Act 2023 will be withheld.

This measure will remain in effect until necessary amendments are deliberated by the GB Cabinet and decided by the GB Assembly for the greater public interest.

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The ACC, which had staged a sit-in at Ittehad Chowk in Gilgit for over a month, had listed this as one of its 15 demands. Last month, the government also withdrew its notification to increase wheat prices up to Rs 36 per kg, addressing another demand.

Following these developments, the AAC held an emergency meeting and decided to postpone the ongoing sit-in at Ittehad Chowk after 35 days.

AAC leader Sher Nadir talking to HUM English stated that they agreed to the government’s request for the time to address the remaining demands and plan to engage in a door-to-door campaign during this break to garner support and spread their message.

However, Nadir emphasized their determination to intensify protests if the government fails to fulfill the outstanding demands, highlighting the legitimacy of their grievances and their unwillingness to compromise.

The remaining demands focus on resolving the power crisis, securing financial resources, asserting local ownership over land, enhancing governance, promoting economic growth, and improving educational and healthcare infrastructure, aiming for sustainable development and equitable rights for the people of Gilgit-Baltistan.