Protests in Gilgit-Baltistan Over Reduced Wheat Flour Subsidy
Residents of Pakistan-occupied Gilgit-Baltistan (PoGB) took to the streets to protest against the administration’s plan to reduce and eventually eliminate the subsidized wheat flour. The protesters, expressing their frustration and anger, chanted slogans and demanded the continuation of the subsidy.
A protester stated, “We are protesting because the government is slowly reducing the quantity of wheat bags and aims to eventually end the subsidy system. That’s why we are protesting today at important city points in PoGB. Everyone has come together for this reason, and we believe the chief secretary of PoGB is behind this move. The people of PoGB are deprived of basic facilities, and now even this subsidy is being taken away from us. We will not accept this at any cost, and our protest will continue until the local administration accepts our demands.”
The reduction in subsidized flour has increased living costs, especially for lower-income families, as the price of wheat flour, a staple in their diets, begins to rise. The Chief Secretary and regional officials have not yet made a public statement addressing the concerns raised by the protesters.
This situation highlights the ongoing socio-economic challenges in Gilgit-Baltistan, a region with a complex history that began when it was forcibly incorporated into the Kashmir dispute after Pakistan’s illegal occupation of a part of Jammu and Kashmir in 1947. Despite changes over the years, the region continues to face neglect and underdevelopment, leaving its residents struggling with limited economic opportunities and ongoing socio-economic challenges.
Doubts Revealed
Gilgit-Baltistan -: Gilgit-Baltistan is a region in the northern part of Pakistan. It is known for its beautiful mountains and valleys.
Subsidy -: A subsidy is when the government helps to pay for something to make it cheaper for people. In this case, the government was helping to make wheat flour cheaper.
Wheat Flour -: Wheat flour is a powder made from grinding wheat. It is used to make bread, chapatis, and other foods.
Protests -: Protests are when people gather to show they are unhappy about something. They might shout slogans or hold signs to express their feelings.
Chief Secretary -: The Chief Secretary is a high-ranking official in the government. They help to manage and make important decisions for the region.
Socio-economic challenges -: Socio-economic challenges are problems that affect both the society and the economy. This can include things like not having enough money, jobs, or resources.