Key Takeaways
- The Gilgit-Baltistan Assembly adopted a resolution asking the federal government to grant provisional provincial status.
- The resolution was supported by both sides of the aisle and presented by lawmaker Jalal Ali Shah.
- It urges the federal government to implement recommendations from the Sartaj Aziz committee.
The Gilgit-Baltistan Assembly has unanimously adopted a resolution calling for provisional provincial status, as well as constitutional and political rights, for the region. The resolution was presented by lawmaker Jalal Ali Shah during a session on Thursday.
The assembly's move reflects a long-standing demand of the GB people, which Chief Minister Amjad Hussain said had been ongoing for 75 years. Speaking in the house, he emphasized that this resolution is a significant step towards achieving greater representation and rights for the region’s residents.
Deputy Speaker Malik Kifayatur Rehman announced the unanimous adoption of the resolution, highlighting its importance to the people of Gilgit-Baltistan. The opposition leader Hafeezur Rehman echoed support, stating that provisional provincial status could be achieved through a constitutional amendment or by providing GB with a share in the NFC Award.
The resolution notes that the Gilgit-Baltistan (Empowerment and Self-Governance) Order 2009 established an elected legislative assembly and enhanced self-governance. It also mentions that further constitutional advancement for the region remains an objective of the state, with the GB Assembly granted legislative powers through the 2018 order.
The resolution specifically asks the federal government to implement the recommendations from the Sartaj Aziz committee by granting GB provisional provincial status. This would allow residents to elect their representatives to the National Assembly and secure representation at the national level.
It also calls for support from the federal government and governments of all four provinces in ensuring that Gilgit-Baltistan receives equitable representation and its rightful share in national resources, particularly through inclusion in the NFC Award on the pattern of Azad Jammu & Kashmir.
The resolution is clear about its non-prejudicial nature regarding Pakistan’s international commitments and legal position regarding the Jammu and Kashmir dispute. It states that provisional status will not affect the final disposition of the territory according to relevant UN resolutions or any future plebiscite or settlement.
In conclusion, the GB Assembly's move underscores a significant push for greater autonomy and representation within the federal structure of Pakistan, reflecting the long-standing aspirations of its people.
The resolution reflects a 75-year-long demand of the GB people.
Chief Minister Amjad Hussain, Chief Minister
Granting provisional provincial status is possible through a constitutional amendment or by providing GB with a share in the NFC Award, on the pattern of Azad Jammu & Kashmir.
Hafeezur Rehman, GB Assembly opposition leader
