The Public Action Committee warned of further escalation if their demands remained unaddressed.
GILGIT: Frustrations boiled over in Gilgit-Baltistan yesterday as hundreds of residents took to the streets in a series of protest meetings against rising flour prices and the recent reduction in wheat subsidies. Demanding their rights and immediate action from the provincial government, the crowd gathered at Dinewar Alamdar Chowk on Shahrah Karakoram, chanting slogans and wielding banners.
The Public Action Committee, spearheading the movement, voiced the grievances of the population, highlighting the crippling impact of the subsidy cut and soaring flour prices. Speakers addressed the throng, demanding the immediate implementation of the Gilgit-Baltistan Finance Act 2023 and the abolition of “illegal” provincial and federal taxes.
A fiery message was delivered to the provincial authorities, with protesters demanding prompt solutions to two pressing issues: the provision of quality wheat at pre-subsidy reduction prices and a definitive end to the region’s ongoing electricity crisis. The rallying cry was clear: “Until these demands are met, protests will continue throughout Gilgit-Baltistan, and there will be no negotiation with the government.”
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The Public Action Committee warned of further escalation if their demands remained unaddressed. “If the provincial government fails to immediately resolve the public demands,” declared a spokesperson, “we will launch the ‘Let’s Go Gilgit’ movement, indicating a potential for more intense and widespread protests.”
