Protests in Raminji Village, Gilgit-Baltistan Over Lack of Health Facilities
Residents of Raminji village in the Gojal Valley of Pakistan-occupied Gilgit-Baltistan have staged a protest due to inadequate health facilities. The village, which is remote and difficult to access, depends on its dispensary for basic medical needs. However, since August 18, there have been no dispensers or security guards, leaving locals without essential services. A protester expressed frustration, highlighting that retired health workers are handling treatments. The dispenser was transferred to Sost, and no replacement has been provided.
Many dispensaries in the region face closures due to staff transfers, lack of resources, and insufficient funding. This situation underscores broader issues of infrastructure and basic services in Gilgit-Baltistan, which have persisted since its disputed occupation by Pakistan. Reports indicate that many health centers are understaffed or closed, forcing residents to travel long distances over challenging terrain to access medical care.
Historically, Gilgit-Baltistan was incorporated into the Kashmir issue by Pakistan in 1949 without local consent. The region was initially governed under the Frontier Crimes Regulation (FCR) until its abolition in the early 1970s by Zulfiqar Bhutto. Despite these changes, the area continues to face neglect and underdevelopment, impacting economic opportunities and socio-economic conditions for its residents.
Doubts Revealed
Raminji Village -: Raminji Village is a small community located in the region of Gilgit-Baltistan, which is part of the larger area known as Kashmir.
Gilgit-Baltistan -: Gilgit-Baltistan is a region in the northern part of Pakistan. It is known for its beautiful mountains and is part of the larger Kashmir area, which has been a point of dispute between India and Pakistan.
Dispensary -: A dispensary is a small health facility where people can get basic medical treatment and medicines. It is like a mini-hospital but with fewer services.
Dispenser -: A dispenser in this context is a person who gives out medicines and provides basic medical care at a dispensary.
Security Guards -: Security guards are people who protect a place or people. In a dispensary, they help keep the area safe for patients and staff.
Retired Health Workers -: Retired health workers are people who used to work in healthcare but have stopped working full-time, often because they are older. In this case, they are helping out because there are not enough current staff.
Kashmir Issue -: The Kashmir issue refers to the ongoing conflict between India and Pakistan over the region of Kashmir, which includes areas like Gilgit-Baltistan. Both countries claim the region as their own.
Socio-economic Conditions -: Socio-economic conditions refer to the social and economic factors that affect people’s lives, like income, education, and access to healthcare. Poor conditions mean people might not have enough money, education, or health services.
