Unrest in Gilgit-Baltistan: A Symbol of Deeper Political Strife

Political analyst Shabir Choudhry highlights unrest in Pakistan-occupied Gilgit-Baltistan as indicative of longstanding political grievances. Protests erupted after Iran's leader's death, escalating into clashes with security forces. The violence emphasizes the region's fragile situation under Pakistan's rule, aggravated by international tensions and limited local representation.

London-based political analyst Shabir Choudhry has attributed the recent violent unrest in Pakistan-occupied Gilgit-Baltistan (PoGB) to deeper political discontent in the region, pointing towards the fragile nature of Pakistan's occupation. Choudhry, in a detailed blog post, argued that the escalating crisis was not merely a reaction to international events but was rooted in longstanding political grievances among the residents.

According to Choudhry, the protests began after the killing of Iran's Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei, in a US-Israel strike on February 28, quickly evolving into confrontations between demonstrators and Pakistani security forces. Thousands gathered on March 1 in key cities, voicing solidarity with Iran and opposing the strikes, amidst chants against the US and Israel.

The situation turned dire as security forces attempted to disperse protestors, reportedly using live ammunition, leading to several deaths and injuries. Authorities reacted by instating curfews, halting communications, and deploying additional forces. Choudhry emphasized the recurring issues of low representation and governance challenges in PoGB, governed by a complex geopolitical climate that exacerbates local unrest.

(With inputs from agencies.)