Awami Action Committee Protests Soaring Electricity Bills in PoGB

The Awami Action Committee (AAC) of Gilgit Baltistan held a protest against rising electricity bills, criticizing the local administration. Protesters accused political leaders of corruption and neglecting public welfare, calling for either the abolition of electricity bills or significantly reduced rates.

Several representatives from the Awami Action Committee (AAC) in Pakistan-occupied Gilgit Baltistan (PoGB) staged a protest on Wednesday to oppose soaring electricity bills, according to local media outlet Pamir Times. Demonstrators voiced their frustration by chanting slogans against the local administration, accusing it of ignoring the community's hardships.

A prominent AAC leader at the protest stated, 'We don't need enemies from around the world anymore, our Chief Minister is enough for that. Our political representatives, despite being elected by us, have become mere puppets in the government's hands, exploiting our resources in PoGB. No one has caused more harm to us than these individuals who impose heavy taxes while leading luxurious lives on our earnings.'

Another AAC leader emphasized, 'There should be no electricity bills for the people of PoGB. We've provided land and water resources for electricity, which entitles us to it for free. If bills must be imposed, the rate should be around PKR 2-3 per unit. Moreover, there is no assurance that the taxes we pay will be utilized for our benefit rather than lining corrupt officials' pockets.'