GB Assembly Calls for Provisional Provincial Status

In a significant move, the Gilgit-Baltistan Assembly has unanimously adopted a resolution calling for the federal government to grant the region provisional provincial status, along with full constitutional and political rights. This resolution, presented by lawmaker Jalal Ali Shah, reflects a long-standing demand of the region's populace.

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Until Gilgit-Baltistan is granted provisional provincial status, this house also appeals to the federal government and the governments of all four provinces to support the inclusion of Gilgit-Baltistan in the (NFC) Award, taking into account all relevant indicators, and to ensure that the people of Gilgit-Baltistan receive equitable representation and their rightful share in national resources.

The assembly's resolution references the historical context of Gilgit-Baltistan's liberation and subsequent administrative reforms. It acknowledges the Gilgit-Baltistan (Empowerment and Self-Governance) Order of 2009 as a key step towards establishing an elected legislative assembly and enhancing self-governance. However, it emphasizes that further constitutional advancement remains a state objective.

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Provisional status shall be without prejudice to Pakistan’s international commitments and legal position regarding the Jammu and Kashmir dispute and shall not affect the final disposition of the territory in accordance with the relevant resolutions of the United Nations and any future plebiscite or settlement.

The resolution highlights the legislative powers granted through the Gilgit-Baltistan Order 2018, based on special directives from former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif and recommendations from the late Sartaj Aziz committee on GB reforms. It urges the federal government to implement these recommendations by granting provisional provincial status, enabling residents to elect representatives to the National Assembly and secure national-level representation.

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The people of Gilgit-Baltistan shall be accorded the same rights as enjoyed by the citizens of other provinces of Pakistan, including representation in the National Assembly, Senate, and other federal constitutional institutions.

Furthermore, the assembly appealed for Gilgit-Baltistan's inclusion in the National Finance Commission (NFC) Award, ensuring equitable representation and a fair share in national resources until provisional status is granted. Crucially, the resolution states that this provisional status will be without prejudice to Pakistan's international commitments and legal position concerning the Jammu and Kashmir dispute. The people of Gilgit-Baltistan are to be accorded the same rights as citizens of other Pakistani provinces, including representation in federal institutions. Deputy Speaker Malik Kifayatur Rehman announced the resolution's unanimous adoption, with Chief Minister Amjad Hussain noting it fulfills a 75-year-old demand.

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The resolution reflected a 75-year-long demand of the GB people.