According to local media reports, protests by flood victims in Gilgit-Baltistan have intensified as they accuse the government of failing to care for the region’s disaster-affected households.
The agitators have threatened widespread protests and set a deadline of November 25 if the authorities do not investigate the issue and pay attention to the disaster-affected families in the area. According to reports in the local media, the road was freed for traffic after six hours of discussions with the Assistant Commissioner.
The demonstrators alleged that the governments were not keeping their word and 1155 households were being forced to live in misery since the calamities had already put a financial strain on them.
According to local media reporting the residents, authorities promised them PKR25,000 to support their house rent, rations, and compensation for demolished homes and lost animals and livestock, but nothing has been handed to them.
Only one female doctor and one medical office serve the 70 thousand residents of Rondo, which also lacks adequate medical and health services. Children are also able to attend school because of the subpar amenities.
In Gilgit-Baltistan, the shared interests of Pakistan and China have led to the repression of the indigenous population, inciting sectarian conflict, and exploiting the region’s natural riches.
There is a perception that Pakistan has consistently exploited Gilgit Baltistan’s riches while denying the natives any financial benefits. The residents’ long-standing resentment dates back to a time when they believed they were mistreated, exploited, and forgotten.
