Gilgit-Baltistan remains a disputed territory between India and Pakistan, currently under Pakistani administration. Despite its importance and vast natural resources, the people of the region continue to face political exclusion and economic neglect. The area is heavily militarised, and real decision-making power does not lie with the people. The so-called assembly exists, but it operates within limits where authority is largely controlled by a military-bureaucratic structure rather than genuine public representation.
Voices of dissent in Gilgit-Baltistan are consistently met with repression. Activists, students, and ordinary people who speak out against injustice are subjected to constant surveillance by intelligence agencies. Their activities are monitored, and many face intimidation, harassment, and arbitrary detention.
There are also serious concerns about the use of forced confessions. Political activists are reportedly pressured into making public statements under coercion, which are then used to discredit movements and justify further crackdowns. When individuals refuse to comply, threats are often directed at their families, creating a climate of fear that extends beyond the activists themselves.
This repression exists alongside severe neglect of basic needs. Despite the region’s natural wealth, many communities still lack reliable access to clean water, electricity, and healthcare. The gap between available resources and living conditions reflects a long-standing pattern of neglect and unequal development.
In this situation, Comrade Ehsan Ali has become a well-known and respected voice among the ordinary working people of Gilgit-Baltistan. His growing support reflects the concerns and frustrations of the wider population. However, this has also made him and those associated with him targets of increased surveillance, pressure, and threats.
RCI Australia strongly condemns the repression of political activists in Gilgit-Baltistan, including surveillance by intelligence agencies, forced confessions, arbitrary detentions, and threats against activists and their families. These actions undermine basic rights and silence legitimate voices.
We stand in solidarity with all those in Gilgit-Baltistan who are raising their voices for dignity, justice, and access to basic services.
We call for:
– An immediate end to surveillance, harassment, and intimidation of activists
– An end to forced confessions and coercive practices
– The release of all individuals detained for peaceful political activity
– Protection of activists and their families from threats
– Genuine representation that reflects the will of the people
– Urgent improvement in access to water, electricity, and healthcare
The people of Gilgit-Baltistan deserve to live with dignity, free from fear, and with access to the basic rights and services that should be guaranteed to all.
RCI Australia.