The Persistent Struggle for Land Rights in Pakistan-Occupied Gilgit-Baltistan: Battling the Menace of the Land Mafia

Nestled amidst the towering peaks and serene valleys of Pakistan-Occupied Gilgit-Baltistan (PoGB), a stark narrative unfolds—a tale of communities battling against the relentless manoeuvres of the land mafia. This strife, anchored in the pursuit of land rights and equity, deeply echoes the aspirations and hardships of the local inhabitants. In PoGB, residents have fervently protested for their land rights, a poignant outcry against the incursions of the land mafia. Despite persistent protests and appeals to authorities, many continue to confront formidable obstacles in reclaiming their rightful lands. The accounts of these protesters underscore the injustice and disillusionment felt by marginalized communities, who find themselves barred from accessing their own ancestral lands.

In the Pakistan-Occupied Gilgit-Baltistan, the issue of land grabbing has emerged as a significant challenge, posing threats not only to livelihoods but also to the cultural fabric of its inhabitants. This region, illegally occupied by Pakistan has witnessed systematic encroachments facilitated by state authorities and influential figures. The struggle for land rights in Pakistan-Occupied Gilgit-Baltistan has deep historical roots, originating long before recent tensions. Since its illegal incorporation into Pakistan in 1947, the region has been a focal point of contention, with its people fiercely defending their unique cultural and political identity. However, in recent decades, there have been mounting reports of exploitation of land resources by powerful interests, often in collusion with state officials. This exploitation intensified after 2015, coinciding with the escalation of infrastructure projects such as the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). Vital lands earmarked for development were acquired with minimal consultation or compensation for the affected local communities.

In the village of Kilishaye Minimerg ^[1], situated in the Astore district, the residents woke up one fateful morning to discover that their lands had been taken away overnight. Under the cover of darkness, aided by bogus documents and local leaders, the land mafia orchestrated a swift and deceitful transfer of ownership. The affected residents, predominantly illiterate and marginalized, were left bewildered and helpless. Their attempts to seek recourse through legal avenues were met with bureaucratic hurdles and denial of access to crucial records, highlighting systemic failures and the impunity with which powerful interests operate.

Similarly, the Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC) initiative of Pakistan for Green Tourism involves arbitrary allocation of public assets to private entities without adherence to legal norms or consideration for local consent. Forest lands and government-owned properties were reportedly leased out to businesses from outside the region, bypassing procedural safeguards meant to protect the rights of indigenous populations. The resultant protests and outcry ^[2] from affected communities echoed a common theme of betrayal and neglect by the authorities entrusted with safeguarding their interests.

Responding towards the same issue during a public gathering in PoGB Chairman of the Awami Action Committee (AAC) Advocate Ehsaan Ali said ^[3], "We know that what all you (Pakistan) have done in PoGB, we will hold you accountable for your atrocities of over 70 years. We will hold you accountable for the resources that you have looted from PoGB, we will hold you accountable for keeping us poor, keeping us uneducated and keeping us away from the most basic facilities essential for survival. You have sold our lands to outsiders. You have brought China to the doorsteps of PoGB literally. You treated our lands like a bargaining chip for increasing your business and making a profit. And we cannot permit you to do this anymore. The company that you have leased our lands to is not willing to share any benefit with us and even the general public now understands all this".

The introduction of major development projects, particularly CPEC, marked a turning point in the struggle for land rights in Gilgit-Baltistan. While touted as a catalyst for economic growth, CPEC's implementation has been marred by allegations of land grabbing and displacement. Local communities, fearing the loss of ancestral lands and cultural heritage, have voiced vehement opposition to what they perceive as the forced imposition of development projects detrimental to their interests. Moreover, reports of lands being allocated to Pakistan's military establishment under the guise of national security further compounded the residents' grievances, highlighting a pattern of exploitation and disregard for local aspirations.

"The government has allotted land for China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) without taking permission of the local people and there is animosity among the people of Gilgit- Baltistan," Meraj, a Journalist in Gilgit said.^[4]Accusing the Pakistani government of violating the rules for changing the demography of the region, he added, "The most significant factor is that the law stated that no one outside of Gilgit- Baltistan can purchase or sell the land in the region and Pakistan government has violated the rule by allotting the land for CPEC projects.^[5] Pakistan Army and Inter-Services Intelligence has been constantly being planning to alter the demography of the region”.

Despite facing formidable odds, the residents of Gilgit-Baltistan have shown remarkable resilience in their quest for justice. Through organized protests, legal challenges, and international advocacy, they continue to assert their rights and demand accountability from the authorities. The protests in Minower, Gilgit, where locals confronted state forces to protect their lands from demolition and illegal allotments, stand as a testament to their unwavering determination and collective action against injustice.

The plight of Gilgit-Baltistan has not gone unnoticed on the international stage. Human rights organizations and advocacy groups have raised concerns over the systematic deprivation of land rights and the marginalization of indigenous communities. Calls for transparency, accountability, and respect for international human rights standards have grown louder, urging Pakistan to address the grievances of its marginalized populations and uphold their rights to land and livelihoods.

In conclusion, the issue of land grabbing in Pakistan-Occupied Gilgit-Baltistan represents more than just a legal dispute; it encapsulates a broader struggle for justice, dignity, and self-determination. The stories of Kilishaye Minimerg, the Green Tourism leasing case, CPEC and ongoing protests underscore the urgent need for systemic reforms to protect the rights of vulnerable populations and ensure equitable development. As global attention shifts towards sustainable practices and human rights, the international community must stand in solidarity with the people of Gilgit-Baltistan, advocating for their right to land and cultural preservation.

The resilience of Pakistan-Occupied Gilgit-Baltistan's communities in the face of adversity serves as a poignant reminder of the human spirit's capacity to resist oppression and pursue justice. Only through concerted efforts, both locally and internationally, can we hope to build a future where land rights are respected, and the aspirations of all communities are honored with dignity and fairness.

References

^[1] Author (2024, Jul 12) Protests in Gilgit Baltistan over land grabbing and stalled projects https://revealinside.in/protests-in-gilgit-baltistan-o-2/ [4]
^[2] Hussain, M. A. (2024, May 28). Gilgit-Baltistan agitated over transfer of tourism sites. The Friday Times. https://thefridaytimes.com/28-May-2024/gilgit-baltistan-agitated-over-transfer-of-tourism-sites [5]
^[3] Green tourism case sparks protest in PoGB, local leader criticises administration. (2024, July 8). ANI News. https://aninews.in/news/world/asia/green-tourism-case-sparks-protests-in-pogb-local-leader-criticises-administration20240708232617/#google_vignette [6]
^[4] Ahmad, S. (2023, January 5). GB’s land issue. DAWN.COM. https://www.dawn.com/news/1730025 [7]
^[5] ANI. (2017, August 20). Gilgit: People oppose land grabbing by Pak ISI. www.business-standard.com. https://www.business-standard.com/article/current-affairs/gilgit-people-oppose-land-grabbing-by-pak-isi-117082000150_1.html [8]
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