In response to escalating unrest and a rapidly deteriorating security situation, the Gilgit-Baltistan government announced the imposition of a strict curfew on Monday, accompanied by the deployment of Pakistan Army forces to the region. This decisive action comes in the wake of widespread protests triggered by the assassination of Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, in a US-Israel strike, which has sent shockwaves across the region and ignited tensions within Pakistan.
The unrest has manifested in violent demonstrations across Gilgit and Skardu, two key districts in Gilgit-Baltistan, where protestors have targeted several government and international installations. Among the most notable incidents, the offices of the United Nations Military Observer Group in India and Pakistan (UNMOGIP) were set ablaze, reflecting the deep anger and frustration among demonstrators. Additionally, a local school, the office of the Superintendent of Police, and the Agha Khan Rural Support Programme (AKRSP) building were also torched during the chaos, highlighting the intensity and scale of the violence.
Faced with this volatile situation, Deputy Home Secretary Ghulam Hasan issued an official notification outlining the government’s decision to impose a curfew for an initial period of three days, covering March 2, 3, and 4. The notification emphasized the precarious nature of law and order in Gilgit-Baltistan, warning that without immediate intervention, the unrest could escalate further, particularly in the districts of Gilgit and Skardu. To restore stability and safeguard lives and property, the government formally requested the deployment of Pakistan Army troops to assist local law enforcement agencies in maintaining peace.
In a video statement addressing the public, Inspector General of Police Gilgit-Baltistan, Akbar Nasir, reassured citizens that the security response would be comprehensive. Alongside the army, personnel from the police, Rangers, and Frontier Corps (FC) will remain actively engaged on the streets to enforce the curfew and prevent further disturbances. The IGP also clarified that the curfew would be relaxed on humanitarian grounds exclusively to allow funeral prayers and burial ceremonies to proceed, but with strict limitations. Only residents of Gilgit will be permitted to attend these gatherings, while individuals traveling from other districts or outside the city will be barred from participating, aiming to minimize large assemblies that could exacerbate tensions.
Authorities have urged the public to fully cooperate with law enforcement agencies during this critical period and to avoid unnecessary movement outside their homes. The curfew is intended to provide a window for calm and reflection, allowing security forces to regain control and prevent any additional damage or loss of life. This measure reflects the government’s commitment to restoring order while balancing the community’s need for dignity and respect during times of mourning.
As the situation continues to develop, officials remain vigilant and ready to extend or adjust the curfew based on ground realities. The deployment of the army and the imposition of the curfew underscore the seriousness with which the Gilgit-Baltistan administration is addressing the unrest, aiming to stabilize the region amid a complex geopolitical backdrop that has reverberated far beyond Iran’s borders.
