Najaf Ali Criticizes PoGB Budget and Land Leasing Issues

Skardu, June 30: Najaf Ali, the former President of the Awami Action Committee (AAC), has raised concerns about the budget for Pakistan-occupied Gilgit-Baltistan (PoGB). He pointed out ‘irregularities’ and claimed it lacks policies beneficial to the people.

Press Conference in Skardu

During a press conference in Skardu City, Ali criticized the leasing of land to the Green Tourism Company. He referred to the leasing of government rest houses and forest land in PoGB to private companies in Punjab Province as ‘Green Terrorism.’

‘Green Terrorism’ Concerns

Ali stated, “This is now the biggest issue for the people of PoGB. It is not about ‘Green Tourism’ anymore; it is a form of ‘Green Terrorism’, as it is just another measure to capture more of PoGB’s lands and resources.” He demanded free electricity, drinking water, and proper education for the people of PoGB.

Budget Criticism

Ali questioned the recently passed budget of PoGB, which has been criticized by financial experts and political parties as anti-public. He asked, “If the members of the assembly rate this budget as anti-people, then how is it being passed, and who is responsible for passing it?”

He further demanded that the money allocated by Islamabad to PoGB be divided into two halves, with one half for government operations and the other half for the people’s betterment.

Business Community Issues

Ali highlighted issues faced by the business community in PoGB, mentioning unpaid bills of private vendors worth millions. He urged the government to pay these bills to prevent losses. He also pointed out that several developmental projects, bridges, and roads are still awaiting work and called for punishment for those responsible for the delays.