GB Cabinet Approves Additional Funds, Security Measures for Upcoming Elections

GILGIT: (Web Desk) – The fourth meeting of the Gilgit-Baltistan Cabinet was held on Tuesday under the chairmanship of Caretaker Chief Minister Yar Muhammad Khan, where key decisions were taken regarding preparations for the upcoming general elections, security arrangements, administrative matters, and financial affairs.

The cabinet reviewed measures and preparations undertaken by the Election Commission for conducting free, fair, and peaceful elections across the region. Cabinet members expressed satisfaction over the progress made so far and reaffirmed their commitment to providing full support and all necessary facilities to ensure a transparent electoral process.

During the meeting, the cabinet approved a mechanism for land compensation payments under the Land Acquisition Act. To ensure foolproof security during the elections, it also approved the deployment of security forces across Gilgit-Baltistan.

On the request of the Election Commission, the cabinet sanctioned an additional Rs780 million to meet election-related expenditures.

The cabinet also approved rules and regulations for the Benevolent Fund and Group Insurance Office under the Services Department, along with the appointment of an auditor. It further extended the hiring period of private vehicles required by the Home Department.

To improve financial and administrative management, the cabinet ratified the Gilgit-Baltistan Grant-in-Aid Rules and the General Provident Fund Investment Policy for government employees.

The cabinet approved previously upgraded judicial posts and made it mandatory for the Law, Finance, and Services departments to be represented in designated committees for any future upgradation or creation of posts within the judiciary.

As part of a public welfare initiative, the cabinet decided to include the Cardiac Hospital in the Chief Minister Endowment Fund panel, enabling deserving patients to receive better and free treatment for heart diseases.

The meeting also approved an extension until July 30 for the deployment of six platoons of GB Scouts in Skardu. Additionally, amendments to the Gilgit-Baltistan System of Financial Control and Budgeting Rules were approved, along with the endorsement of the SEP Organization Management Model.

The cabinet emphasized its commitment to ensuring transparent elections, effective governance, and improved public service delivery across Gilgit-Baltistan.