Gilgit Baltistan Advocates Condemn AAC Leaders' Inclusion in Anti-Terror List

Advocates from the Bar Council of Pakistan-occupied Gilgit Baltistan have condemned the inclusion of Awami Action Committee leaders in the Anti-Terrorism Act's Schedule Four list, citing constitutional violations. They demand the removal of AAC leaders from the list and urge the government to respect freedom of expression.

In a strong stance, advocates from the Bar Council of Pakistan-occupied Gilgit Baltistan (PoGB) have denounced the inclusion of Awami Action Committee (AAC) leadership in the Anti-Terrorism Act's Schedule Four list. This move, the Pamir Times reported, has been labeled a breach of Pakistan's constitutional provisions.

The Gilgit-Baltistan High Court Bar Association has called for the immediate removal of AAC leaders, including Chairman Ehsan Ali Advocate, from the list. They also demand a halt to actions under the said law against PoGB residents until the region's constitutional status is resolved.

Backing the call, PoGB Gilgit Bar Association and Hunza Bar Association have issued separate press releases urging the government to safeguard freedom of expression. Ashfaq Advocate from PoGB has vowed to challenge the law in court if the AAC leaders' names are not expunged, emphasizing that the act grants excessive powers to the defense forces and federal and provincial governments under the guise of counter-terrorism.

Historically, the Awami Action Committee has championed the rights of PoGB residents, organizing protests against issues like the revocation of wheat and flour subsidies, high electricity taxation, and underdevelopment. Recently, AAC representatives staged a protest in Taus against rising electricity bills, spotlighting public discontent with local administration and political representatives.

During the protests, an AAC leader lambasted the Chief Minister and political representatives for exploiting resources and imposing heavy taxes while living in luxury at the expense of the public. This sentiment captures the growing frustration of PoGB residents who feel betrayed by their elected officials.

(With inputs from agencies.)