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GILGIT: The Gilgit-Baltistan Assembly on Thursday unanimously adopted a resolution asking the federal government to grant provisional provincial status, as well as constitutional and political rights, for the people of the mountainous region. The resolution, supported by both sides of the aisle, was presented by lawmaker Jalal Ali Shah during the session.

The resolution recalled the historical background of GB’s liberation, subsequent administrative reforms, and constitutional mechanisms for its integration into the national constitutional framework. It noted that the Gilgit-Baltistan (Empowerment and Self-Governance) Order 2009 constituted a significant milestone by establishing an elected legislative assembly and enhancing self-governance, while simultaneously reaffirming that further constitutional advancement of the region remained an objective of the state.

The resolution said the GB assembly was granted legislative powers through the Gilgit-Baltistan Order 2018 in light of the special directives of former prime minister Nawaz Sharif on the recommendation of late Sartaj Aziz, who led a committee on GB reforms. It urged the federal government to implement the recommendations of the Sartaj Aziz committee by granting GB the status of a provisional province so that residents could elect their representatives to the National Assembly and secure representation at the national level.

Coverage comparison

The resolution was reported by Dawn, which noted that the demand is not new — the House has previously issued a similar call. In fact, the demand cuts across party, regional and ethnic lines in GB. The resolution also calls for granting GB “constitutional and political rights”, while adding that until provisional provincial status is achieved, the region should be included in the NFC Award. Crucially, GB’s lawmakers have said the provisional status will be “without prejudice” to Pakistan’s position regarding the Kashmir dispute with India.

Dawn’s coverage highlighted that this is an important caveat, as some within the country are concerned that granting such status to GB could imperil Pakistan’s principled stand on Kashmir. The clarification should put such fears to rest. Equally important, the report noted, is the endorsement given to the GB Assembly’s demand by the All Parties Hurriyat Conference, AJK chapter, considering the historic link between Kashmir and GB.

Key claims

  • The Gilgit-Baltistan Assembly adopted a unanimous resolution asking for provisional provincial status, with support from both sides of the aisle.
  • The resolution recalled the historical background of GB’s liberation and subsequent administrative reforms.
  • The Gilgit-Baltistan (Empowerment and Self-Governance) Order 2009 established an elected legislative assembly.
  • The GB assembly was granted legislative powers through the Gilgit-Baltistan Order 2018.
  • The resolution urged the federal government to implement the recommendations of the Sartaj Aziz committee, including granting GB provisional provincial status.
  • The resolution also appealed for GB’s inclusion in the NFC Award until provisional status is achieved.
  • The All Parties Hurriyat Conference, AJK chapter, endorsed the GB Assembly’s demand.
  • PPP chief Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari called for constitutional conventions in both GB and AJK.

Perspectives

GB Assembly lawmakers

The resolution’s proponents argue that provisional provincial status is necessary to secure constitutional and political rights for GB residents, including representation in the National Assembly and a fair share of national resources. They frame the demand as a step towards integration, while explicitly stating that it would not affect Pakistan’s position on the Kashmir dispute.

Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP)

PPP chief Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari has called for constitutional conventions in both GB and AJK, indicating a broader political approach to addressing the region’s constitutional status.

All Parties Hurriyat Conference (AJK chapter)

The AJK chapter of the All Parties Hurriyat Conference endorsed the GB Assembly’s demand, reflecting the historic link between Kashmir and GB, though the specific reasons for their support were not detailed in the available material.