Demonstrations staged in GB over soaring wheat prices

SKARDU: In reaction to surge in wheat prices, protests erupted in Gilgit-Baltistan, particularly at Yadgar Shuhada, where a substantial number of demonstrators gathered on Thursday to express their concerns.

The call for the protest came from trade organizations, social societies and various public action committees. Addressing the crowd, speakers emphasized the non-implementation of agreements by the federal government in Gilgit-Baltistan, resulting in the deprivation of basic democratic and human rights for its residents.

Issues brought to the forefront during the protest included the exclusion of rivers and other natural resources, along with the general sales tax, from the cost calculations of commodities. Protesters also pointed out the paradox of the federal government withdrawing means of sustenance from the poorest amidst river cutting, landslides, and floods, instead of providing financial assistance.

They announced continuation of protests until the rollback of the recent wheat price hike.