THE Supreme Court has recently taken up the issue of Gilgit-Baltistan. The people of Gilgit are in a desperate mood to witness the solution of this dispute that has put its developmental progress on halt.

The inhabitants of this region have developed a spiritual connection with the state of Pakistan ever since their annexation on November 17, 1947. But, the Constitution of Pakistan has simply turned a blind eye to our rightful provisions. Our courtesy and respect to Pakistan are reciprocated with a flat slap on our faces by the Constitution. We are condemned to be treated as the step-children of this motherland throughout the course of 64 years. In sharp contrast, the Indian constitution embodies an extra status to this region declaring it an integral part of its peninsular body. The historical background reveals the gallant efforts put up by the indigenous movement of Gilgit-Baltistan to liberate its dwellers from the jaws of Sikhs. After the removal of tyrants, those spearheads made an epoch-making decision underpinned by the consent of public to merge into the national mainstream of Pakistan, but we are still thrown out of it like the malarial plasmodium. The heartiest plea of our people is returned back with a label of ‘disputed territory’ branded on our backs.

This region is deprived of any representation in the Senate or in the National Assembly; a blatant reflection of neglect and bare-faced injustice. Why are we left out from the national mainstream of Pakistan with such an intensity of words? Is it that the blood our forefathers only brought about a change in despots both seeking to suck the potential out of us with impunity? Aren’t we becoming a laughingstock or a piece of mockery that shed their blood for a mere notorious label of ‘disputed territory’? I appeal my brothers to send a deep impulse into their hearts and dare to answer the questions raised in the minds of every inhabitant living on the peaks of Gilgit-Baltistan in search of his identity in this world.

REHAN KHAN GILGITI Rawalpindi

Sense of deprivation

GILGIT-BALTISTAN has been going through turmoil since 1988 due to sectarian violence which is resulting in instability in the region. As a gateway to some of the powerful countries like India, China, Russia, and Central Asian States, Gilgit-Baltistan has geopolitical importance. But despite its importance, it has been politically underestimated since its affiliation with Pakistan.

The result is in front of us: the recent Kohistan killings. The solution we all know is education which is the best remedy for most of our problems.

The government should act proactively and take remedial measures. Gilgit-Baltistan is without a medical, engineering and law college. It is impossible to think of stability in the region where young generation is being diverted towards destructive activities.

The government should take solid steps on an urgent basis to reduce illiteracy and divert the young generation towards building a prosperous Pakistan or we should be ready for a Balochistan-like situation.

AWAIS ALI BAIG HUNZAI Lahore