Gilgit-Baltistan Lawyers Stand Firm Against Controversial Land Reform Act

Lawyers in Gilgit-Baltistan are boycotting court proceedings until November 16, protesting a land reform act that allegedly violates residents' rights. They demand law amendments, release of pending plots, and protection measures for the legal community. The boycott follows criticism of the act for favoring the wealthy over locals.

In a united front, lawyers across Gilgit-Baltistan have announced a boycott of all court proceedings until November 16, in protest against a controversial land reform act. The coordinated action involves several legal associations, including the High Court Bar Association, the Gilgit-Baltistan Bar Council, and the Supreme Court Bar Association, according to reports from the Pamir Times.

The bar associations argue that the land reform act infringes upon the fundamental rights of the region's people, deeming the legislation unacceptable. In addition to demanding considerable amendments to the proposed laws, the lawyers have called for a completely revised version to be presented. The Long-standing issue of plots pending since 2011 has also been brought to the forefront, with demands for their immediate release.

The lawyers have intensified their calls for the implementation of a Lawyers Protection Act, aiming to ensure better welfare and security for the legal fraternity. Focus has also been placed on addressing public grievances and pressing the government to fill judicial vacancies, particularly in the Supreme Appellate Court, to streamline the judicial process in Gilgit-Baltistan.

Prominent lawyer Ashfaq Ahmad has publicly condemned the land reform act, arguing that it disregards people's interests and breaches their fundamental rights, benefiting only the affluent and government entities. The boycott remains firm, with disciplinary measures in place against any violations, emphasizing the resolve of the legal community to fight against the bill.

This stance reflects broader issues in the region, where continuous infrastructure and service inadequacies highlight significant violations of basic rights, perpetuating the deprivation of essential needs for many residents. (ANI)

(With inputs from agencies.)