ALREADY deprived, natives of Gilgit-Baltistan are upset to see another non-democratic and unconstitutional act of government. Since its inception the region was ignored and its status is still undefined. However, in 2009, a de facto political system was introduced, providing for a local legislative assembly. In a suspected presidential order, legislative rights of the given assembly were snatched and given to the Gilgit-Baltistan Council chairman, the prime minister of Pakistan. This order created unrest among the local people, who turned out to demonstrate their anger in different areas in the country.

Considering the issue seriously, there is a need to look into the matter to find out a solution. Otherwise, a new Baltistan is on its on set for Pakistan.

Assad Abbas

Islamabad

Published in Dawn, May 16th, 2018