Protests in Skardu, Gilgit-Baltistan Over Soaring Wheat Prices

The protests began in December 2023 following the government’s decision to significantly increase the price of subsidized wheat in Gilgit-Baltistan. The price of a 50-kg bag of wheat rose from Rs. 2000 to Rs. 3600, making it a major burden for many residents, particularly those living in poverty.

In response to the recent hike in wheat prices, no electricity, and removal of subsidies, a widespread protest was organized in Skardu, Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir’s Gilgit-Baltistan region. The protest, called by the coordination committee of the All-Party Alliance, saw participation from various political, religious, social, and nationalist parties, along with traders’ organizations.

The demonstrators gathered at Yadgar Chowk to voice their opposition to the government’s decision to raise the price of wheat and eliminate subsidies. Prominent figures like Ghulam Hussain Athar, Sheikh Ahmed Tarabi, and others addressed the crowd, expressing dissatisfaction with the government’s continuous increase in wheat prices.

Protesters accused the government of using strong-arm tactics and threatened serious consequences if such measures continued. They asserted their determination not to bow down to government pressure and called for a halt to unjust policies. The protesters criticized the government for avoiding dialogue and accused it of attempting to worsen the situation through dubious means.

People from the Shigar region also staged protests against the rising wheat prices and the Finance Act of 2023. The Awami Action Committee leaders addressed the crowd. They demanded a rollback of the increased wheat prices and a return to previous rates.

Simultaneously, the Public Action Committee Gilgit Baltistan held a joint meeting to denounce the government’s decision to set the price of a wheat bag at Rs 3600 and impose additional taxes under the Finance Act 2023. The committee rejected the government’s promises of providing 7 kg of wheat per person, considering it a mere distraction.

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Despite there being a 4-week protest going on there is no news on mainstream media or news channels. These small yet impactful actions can cause drastic consequences in the future. The people of Gilgit Baltistan are asking for a fair cause because they are providing a huge turnover to the country in terms of tourism. Let’s see how the government will take action for these poor people.