Pakistan’s Prime Minister Imran Khan announced to grant provisional provincial status to Gilgit Baltistan on November 1, 2020 in his speech on the region’s Independence Day celebrating their struggle and independence from the Dogra Dynasty since 1947. PM Khan stated that it being a long standing demand of the people is now a promise fulfilled keeping in view the framework of the United Nations(UN) Security Council resolutions. Gilgit Baltistan being eligible for fundamental rights from 2019 through court orders, is to be granted judicial power as well.
This announcement was welcomed by the people of the region stating it to be a decision that caters the political and constitutional rift since 73 years. The Prime Minister has worked his way through the demands of the people, giving him a political advance over his counterparts. It is believed to be a step to welcome the upcoming elections in the country.
This decision however, is not welcomed by the Indian government and critics calling it illegal and unconstitutional. Gilgit Baltistan being an autonomous region in the Kashmir province has brought it under the Kashmir conflict that has been between the two countries since their birth. Gilgit Baltistan has been under the government of Azad Kashmir, a rather undisputed region. However, for India Azad Kashmir is a Pakistan occupied region making this decision illegal.
Gilgit Baltistan is a geographically and economically significant region, which makes it more desirable for both countries. Surrounded by snow capped mountains and valleys, Gilgit Baltistan is a top tourist attraction for foreign and local tourists. After the $64 billion China Pakistan Economic Corridor(CPEC) project Gilgit Baltistan is more honoured by Pakistan as it is the route to a network of roads, railways and pipelines to other parts of the country.