GILGIT: The Prime Minister, Mr Zulfikar Ali Bhutto, announced here this evening [Sept 24] the merger of Hunza state with the Northern Areas. … Mr Bhutto said Pakistan belonged to peasants and workers and not to Jagirdars, Sardars and Mirs. He said states within the State could not be tolerated. … He said all states have already been abolished. Only one was left and now Hunza state has also been abolished. He said this decision was based on principles and was not directed against any individual. Hundreds of people attending the Iftar party received the announcement with cheers and slogans of Awami Hakoomat Zindabad.

[Meanwhile, as reported by news agencies from Skardu,] this otherwise sleepy-little town on way to the world’s second highest peak, K-II, was bustling with activity on the eve of [Mr Bhutto’s] three-day visit to Baltistan district. Final touches were being given to arrangements to accord a colourful … welcome to Mr Bhutto who would be the first Head of Government to tour this remote area. … Baltese from other parts of the district were today streaming into Skardu to give a befitting welcome to Mr Bhutto. … The Prime Minister will have a very busy schedule … in Baltistan.

Published in Dawn, September 25th, 2024