Gilgit (Web Desk): The Gilgit-Baltistan (GB) government has imposed Section 144 within the city and has called in the army to ensure peace and uphold law and order in the region.
In a meeting of the Parliamentary Peace Committee, presided over by GB Chief Minister Gulbar Khan, it was decided to deploy GB scouts Rangers personnel and Frontier Corps (FC) in major cities to maintain law and order in the region.
As per the decision, the regional government has also imposed a ban on the display of arms and aerial firing. The administration has also banned illegal gatherings and road closures.
In response to the unrest and tensions, 4G broadband services in the area have been temporarily suspended, with 2G services remaining operational. This suspension has been imposed after recommendations from the provincial administration and directives issued by Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA).
CM GB Gulbar Khan said that strict action will be taken against those spreading hatred through social media and other means.
Moreover, a list of individuals engaged in disseminating hate speech and inciting lawlessness has been compiled, according to sources.
The decision to deploy personnel from Rangers, GB Scouts, and Frontier Corps in major cities comes in the wake of recent upsetting tensions and disturbances triggered by protests in Chilas.
Demonstrators blocked the Karakoram Highway and Babusar Pass road for three days, demanding the arrest of a religious leader from Skardu for alleged controversial remarks.
Protests were also held in Astore and Gilgit, but were called off following the registration of an FIR against religious leader Agha Baqir Al-Hussaini.
The government has also requested citizens to cooperate with the administration in promoting unity and harmony.