SKARDU/GILGIT: Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari has said that the rights of the people of Gilgit-Baltistan must be fully protected under any future constitutional amendment, stressing that the region’s residents should not be deprived of their political, constitutional, and democratic rights.
Addressing an election rally during his party’s campaign in Gilgit-Baltistan, Bilawal said any constitutional changes concerning the region should be made with the consent of its people and in a way that safeguards their identity and representation. He argued that GB has long played a vital role in Pakistan but still faces constitutional uncertainties that need to be addressed through consensus and democratic dialogue.
The PPP chairman told supporters that his party has consistently advocated greater constitutional protections for Gilgit-Baltistan. He maintained that any new amendment introduced in parliament should guarantee the region’s rights rather than weaken them. According to Bilawal, the people of GB deserve a clear constitutional framework that ensures political participation and equal opportunities.
His remarks come as political activity intensifies ahead of the upcoming Gilgit-Baltistan Assembly elections, scheduled for June 7, 2026. Major political parties, including the PPP, PML-N, and PTI, have launched aggressive campaigns across the mountainous region in an effort to secure voter support.
Bilawal also criticized what he described as attempts by successive governments to make decisions about Gilgit-Baltistan without adequately consulting local stakeholders. He said lasting solutions could only emerge through democratic consensus and respect for the aspirations of the people living in the region.
Political observers view Gilgit-Baltistan’s constitutional status as one of Pakistan’s most sensitive governance issues. Over the years, several proposals have been discussed to grant the territory greater autonomy and representation while maintaining Pakistan’s position on the broader Kashmir dispute.
The PPP leadership has repeatedly argued that constitutional reforms should strengthen democratic institutions and ensure that residents of Gilgit-Baltistan enjoy rights comparable to those available in the country’s provinces. Bilawal said his party would continue to raise the issue at every political and parliamentary forum.
As election campaigning enters its final phase, constitutional rights, local governance, development projects, and representation in federal institutions are emerging as key issues for voters across Gilgit-Baltistan.
