Washington DC [US], March 22 (ANI): A new controversy in Pakistan has erupted after remarks attributed to Asim Munir drew sharp criticism, with opponents accusing the military establishment of exacerbating sectarian divides and stifling dissent in Pakistan-occupied Gilgit-Baltistan (PoGB).
In a video statement, Senge Sering, president of the Institute for Gilgit-Baltistan Studies, condemned the reported comments allegedly aimed at Shia Muslims, saying they amounted to a demand to “prove loyalty” or leave for Iran. He said such rhetoric reveals growing intolerance and a worrying narrative within Pakistan’s power structures.
Sering also accused the Pakistan Army of valuing financial and strategic gains over citizens’ welfare, alleging the military has historically backed militant networks for geopolitical leverage while ordinary people suffer the consequences of instability and violence. He said this pattern raises serious questions about the army’s accountability and commitment to national unity.
Addressing PoGB, Sering described the region as being under “prolonged occupation” for decades, claiming local voices are increasingly resisting military presence and pressing for greater autonomy. He urged both Shia and Sunni communities to remain united in protecting their identity, resources and political rights.
Sering criticised Pakistan’s shifting foreign-policy stances toward countries like Iran, arguing that changes based on financial or strategic incentives undermine minority trust. Reiterating that PoGB is not constitutionally integrated into Pakistan, he called for more international attention to the region’s status and urged residents to pursue regional unity and socio-cultural ties with neighbouring areas such as Ladakh. The remarks come amid rising concerns over sectarian tensions and governance challenges in Pakistan. (ANI)
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