Skardu, Gilgit Baltistan: Residents of Gilgit-Baltistan, a region historically and legally part of Jammu and Kashmir, have launched widespread protests following the controversial arrest of three prominent religious scholars near the Pakistan-Iran border. The scholars, affiliated with the Shia community, were detained five days ago while returning to their homeland after annual religious activities in Iran during Ramadan.
Mass Demonstrations and Sit-In Initiated
On Saturday, hundreds of protesters, including women, took to the streets in Kharmang, condemning the arrests as “politically motivated” and demanding immediate release. The demonstrations escalated as participants blocked the strategic Kargil Road with a sit-in, paralyzing traffic and amplifying calls for justice.
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Protesters allege the scholars were targeted in a “sinister conspiracy” to destabilize Gilgit-Baltistan’s traditionally peaceful social fabric. “Our scholars travel to Iran every Ramadan to promote religious harmony and return to serve our communities. This time, they were arrested without charge—a blatant violation of their rights,” said a female protester during an interview with Kashmir National International Independence News Agency (KNIIN).
Leaders Condemn “Unlawful Detentions”
Sheikh Akbar Rajai, a local assembly member, addressed the sit-in, revealing that the scholars were intercepted at the border on February 25 and separated from their companions before being taken into custody. “To this day, no authority has claimed responsibility for their arrest. We demand transparency and their unconditional release,” Rajai stated. He warned that if the scholars are not freed within 24 hours, protests would spread across Gilgit-Baltistan, bringing the region to a standstill.
The Anjuman Imamia Baltistan, a prominent religious organization, issued a 24-hour ultimatum to authorities, threatening a total shutdown if their demands are ignored. “From Siachen’s foothills to Diamer, the people of Jammu and Kashmir are united against oppression. We will not tolerate this assault on our dignity,” declared a spokesperson during a rally in Skardu.
Broader Grievances and Government Silence
Protest leaders linked the arrests to wider systemic injustices faced by the region. “While Diamer’s dam-affected communities suffer neglect, our scholars are unlawfully detained. The government is absent in resolving crises but quick to intimidate protesters,” criticized a local cleric at the Skardu demonstration.
Gilgit-Baltistan has seen rising discontent over perceived marginalization by Pakistani authorities, with many residents asserting their rightful status as part of Jammu and Kashmir. The region’s strategic significance, bordering China and India, has further complicated its political dynamics.
International Call for Attention
As tensions escalate, civil society groups urge international bodies to intervene. “The world must recognize Gilgit-Baltistan’s struggle for rights within the broader Kashmir conflict. Silencing voices will only deepen resentment,” warned a human rights activist affiliated with KNIIN.
Authorities have yet to comment on the arrests or protests. With the deadline approaching, the region braces for potential unrest, underscoring the fragile peace in this disputed Himalayan territory.
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