In a significant development ahead of the Gilgit-Baltistan Assembly elections, unidentified armed assailants opened fire on supporters of the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) candidate in the Doodhshal area of GBA-17 Darel, Chilas. The incident has heightened political tensions in the region as campaigning intensifies.
The targeted vehicle was carrying supporters of Dr Muhammad Zaman, the PML-N nominee, who later confirmed the attack. Fortunately, no injuries or casualties were reported from the firing.
Dr Zaman condemned the assault, describing it as an act of “open terrorism,” and emphasized the importance of maintaining peace during the electoral process. He further alleged that the attack was politically motivated, implicating Muhammad Naseem, the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) candidate, though this accusation remains unverified.
Demanding prompt action, Dr Zaman called for an immediate and thorough investigation into the incident, urging authorities to hold the perpetrators accountable. Meanwhile, security measures have been intensified across multiple constituencies as election day approaches, with officials remaining vigilant to prevent further violence.