Islamabad, Aug 23 — Escalating unrest has gripped Pakistan-occupied Gilgit-Baltistan (PoGB) as police personnel protesting against delayed allowances and benefits face mass suspensions and salary stoppages, according to a report by Afghan news agency Khaama Press.
Tensions erupted in mid-August when hundreds of police officers, including women constables, staged an overnight sit-in outside the regional authority’s residence. Their primary demand was the release of allowances that had been approved in the regional budget but not implemented.
Protesters demanded parity with Islamabad Police, including a monthly ration allowance of PKR 6,000 instead of the PKR 500 hike offered, and inclusion in the 30% Disparity Reduction Allowance already extended to other government employees.
Instead of opening dialogue, the administration responded with punitive actions. On August 11, 26 officers were suspended in Gilgit for “grave misconduct.” The next day, nine more were suspended in Hunza. Reports later indicated that up to 63 personnel had been dismissed—marking one of the largest mass dismissals in the region’s history. Salaries of the suspended officers were also withheld.
While authorities claimed the disciplinary actions were necessary to maintain order, the protesting officers argued that their sit-in was a peaceful demonstration within their constitutional rights.
This protest followed an earlier one on July 28, which had been called off after officials promised resolution within 14 days—a promise protesters say was broken, prompting renewed agitation.
Support for the protesters has grown, with traders, lawyers, and sections of civil society backing their demands. Even senior police officials have expressed solidarity, indicating a widening rift within the force.
Analysts warn that continued crackdowns could fuel further instability in PoGB, a region increasingly significant to Pakistan’s national security and international infrastructure projects.
