In a display of frustration and discontent, local traders in Gilgit, Pakistan-occupied Gilgit Baltistan (POGB), took to the streets on Thursday to protest against the rising incidents of burglary and lawlessness plaguing the area. The demonstration coincided with the general elections taking place in Pakistan, underscoring the urgency and gravity of their concerns.
Voicing their grievances, the traders lamented the apparent security lapses and the perceived negligence on the part of security agencies, holding them responsible for rampant unlawful activities. A prominent local businessman, who fell victim to a recent burglary, expressed the collective sentiment, demanding justice from the authorities.
People are agitated over the lack of vigilance by the occupying administration, law and order machinery. They stated that they pay the taxes and it is the duty of the occupying Pakistani government to look after the people and their properties. Even more concerning is the response of the police which lacks muscle to act swiftly.
Talking to media a businessman said, “We are asked to pay protection money to officials. If they cannot provide us with adequate security, then they must compensate us for our losses. We demand assurance that we will be protected or compensated, but nothing like this has happened till now. Hence, we are forced to put our demands forward by protesting.”
Traders and businessman stated that they have to pay the security money on time, failing which their shops are sealed but when it comes to compensation, there is no answerability of the occupying government and administration.