Curfew Strains Lives in Gilgit-Baltistan Amid Governance Woes

In Pakistan-occupied Gilgit-Baltistan, a stringent curfew and the deployment of security forces have significantly disrupted daily life. Following unrest caused by the death of Iranian leader Ayatollah Khomeini, authorities handed over control of certain areas to security personnel, making it challenging for residents to obtain essential goods and services.

The curfew, now partially relaxed, continues to impose hardships, especially for daily wage laborers who depend on day-to-day income to support their families. During Ramadan, the closures of markets further aggravated the struggle to secure necessities for sehri and iftar, intensifying the difficulties faced by the local population.

The developments have spotlighted governance challenges in Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir and Gilgit-Baltistan. Critics argue that authorities frequently resort to administrative crackdowns instead of addressing public grievances through constructive measures, exacerbating public dissatisfaction.