Ongoing unrest in parts of Pakistan-administered Kashmir, including Gilgit-Baltistan and Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK), has recently intensified, with protestors demanding economic relief, political rights, and greater autonomy. Amid these developments, Bashir Zeb Baloch, chief of the Balochistan Liberation Front (BLF), issued a statement expressing solidarity with the resistance movement and accusing Pakistan of systemic suppression of political and economic rights across its territories.

The unrest in regions like Gilgit-Baltistan has seen significant public demonstrations over several weeks. Residents have protested against various issues, including rising electricity tariffs, increased taxation, and shortages of subsidized wheat flour. Demands also extend to greater political representation and the return of land allegedly seized by the state. Similar grievances have fueled protests in other areas of Pakistan-administered Kashmir, highlighting widespread discontent over resource distribution and governance. Protests have been reported in major towns such as Muzaffarabad and Rawalakot in AJK, and across various districts in Gilgit-Baltistan, drawing thousands of participants.

In response to these events, Bashir Zeb Baloch, leader of the separatist BLF, released a public statement. He asserted that the struggles in Balochistan and Pakistan-administered Kashmir share common ground, both stemming from what he described as Pakistan's policies of exploitation and suppression. Baloch specifically accused the Pakistani state of forcibly occupying territories, plundering natural resources, and systematically denying political rights to local populations. He emphasized that the resistance observed in Pakistan-administered Kashmir reflected a broader pattern of discontent against the state's policies, drawing parallels with the long-standing independence movement in Balochistan.

  • Key Demands in Pakistan-Administered Kashmir: Protestors in Gilgit-Baltistan and AJK have called for:

    • Reduction in electricity prices and utility tariffs.
    • Provision of subsidized wheat flour and essential commodities.
    • Withdrawal of new taxes deemed unjust.
    • Greater political autonomy and representation.
    • Cessation of alleged land encroachments by authorities.

  • BLF Accusations: The BLF chief's statement reiterated long-standing Baloch grievances, including:

    • Alleged exploitation of Balochistan's natural resources (e.g., gas, minerals) without adequate benefit to local populations.
    • Suppression of political dissent and human rights violations.
    • Systematic marginalization of the Baloch people in national governance.

The BLF, designated as a terrorist organization by Pakistan, has historically advocated for an independent Balochistan, citing issues of economic marginalization and political oppression. Bashir Zeb Baloch's endorsement of the protests in Pakistan-administered Kashmir signifies an attempt to unify various regional movements that express dissatisfaction with the Pakistani government. This cross-regional support underscores the complex internal challenges Pakistan faces in managing diverse ethnic and political demands.

The Pakistani government has yet to issue a comprehensive response to the BLF chief's specific statement. However, authorities have previously stated their commitment to addressing the legitimate concerns of residents in Gilgit-Baltistan and AJK through dialogue and administrative measures, while maintaining that these regions are integral parts of Pakistan. The ongoing situation indicates continued internal pressure on Pakistan to address grievances related to economic disparities, political freedoms, and human rights across its various administrative units.