Gilgit [PoGB], February 27 (ANI): Protests led by women over water shortages, prolonged electricity cuts and lack of basic services have drawn attention in Pakistan-occupied Gilgit-Baltistan (PoGB). Human rights advocate and president of the Institute for Gilgit Baltistan Studies, Senge Sering, voiced support for the demonstrators and alleged decades of systemic neglect in the region.
Sering said women in PoGB are increasingly coming forward to demand fundamental rights, including access to water, electricity and sanitation. Citing a viral video from Gilgit city, he described a woman protesting the absence of essential services in her locality, saying the water supply there is limited to barely half an hour after gaps of ten to fifteen days. She also highlighted persistent electricity shortages, sanitation problems and youth unemployment.
Sering said the protest reflects broader frustrations, with residents feeling excluded from governance and questioning the appointment of administrators from outside the region. He argued that regional institutions belong to local people who should have the right to self-governance.
Sering further claimed that Pakistan has illegally occupied the region and should withdraw, asserting the area rightfully belongs to India and invoking United Nations resolutions. He said that after any withdrawal, the people could directly engage with India on their constitutional, legal and political rights.
Observers critical of the current administration say the shortages point to deeper political marginalisation and unequal resource distribution, noting limited political representation and inadequate infrastructure development in PoGB. Protests continue amid mounting public dissatisfaction, with residents calling for improved services and greater accountability. (ANI)
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