The administration of Gilgit-Baltistan has taken a significant step by announcing the creation of a judicial commission tasked with investigating the recent surge of violence that erupted in the region. This unrest, which tragically resulted in the deaths of at least 13 individuals, including a security personnel member, has raised serious concerns about the breakdown of law and order in the area.
The turmoil began following the assassination of Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, on 28 February 2026, in what were reported as joint airstrikes carried out by the United States and Israel. This event sparked widespread outrage, particularly in the Shia-majority districts of Gilgit-Baltistan, where emotions ran high. Cities such as Gilgit and Skardu witnessed large-scale demonstrations that quickly escalated into violent clashes, reflecting the deep sectarian and political sensitivities in the region.
In response to the escalating crisis, the caretaker government, led by retired Justice Yar Muhammad, convened a meeting of the Special Apex Committee in Gilgit. During this session, officials decided to establish a judicial commission to thoroughly examine the security failures that allowed the protests to spiral out of control. The commission’s mandate includes investigating the causes behind the violent confrontations, assessing the loss of life, and evaluating the extensive damage inflicted on both public infrastructure and private property.
The unrest saw protesters targeting various government installations, including police stations and military posts, as well as offices of international organizations such as the United Nations Development Programme and the United Nations Military Observer Group in India and Pakistan. The Apex Committee condemned these actions as deliberate “terrorist acts” orchestrated by disruptive elements within the crowds, which further exacerbated the situation and led to additional casualties and destruction.
To restore stability, authorities have imposed a curfew in Gilgit and Skardu, initially set for three days starting 2 March, but this has since been extended in certain areas due to ongoing security challenges. While the curfew restricts movement, limited exemptions have been allowed for essential travel and medical emergencies. Alongside this, a comprehensive de-weaponisation campaign has been launched to confiscate illegal firearms and curb the circulation of weapons in the region, aiming to prevent further violence.
Security forces, including the army, have been deployed to maintain order and prevent any resurgence of unrest. Hospitals have been placed on high alert to manage the influx of injured individuals. The Apex Committee has emphasized the importance of close coordination between security agencies and administrative bodies to ensure an effective response. Officials have vowed to take strict action against those responsible for the arson, vandalism, and attacks on state institutions.
As the judicial commission prepares to begin its inquiry, the government’s primary focus remains on stabilizing the region, addressing the underlying grievances that fueled the protests, and ensuring accountability for the violence. This development marks a critical juncture for Gilgit-Baltistan as it seeks to navigate the complex aftermath of a politically charged and tragic episode.
