A political activist has highlighted the issue of racial discrimination in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) and Gilgit Baltistan at the UN Human Rights Council in Geneva.
During his address at the 55th Session of the UN Human Rights Council, Sajjad Raja, Chairman of the National Equality Party JKGBL, raised concerns about the discriminatory practices prevailing in the region. He pointed out that PoK is governed by Act 74 and Gilgit Baltistan by Order 2018, both of which allow for various forms of racial discrimination.
Raja noted that despite the abilities and achievements of indigenous individuals, they are often denied promotions to key positions such as Chief Secretary, Inspector General Police, Auditor General, and Finance Secretary, which are reserved for officers of Pakistani ethnicity from Pakistan Civil Services.
He further highlighted that a majority of job opportunities, particularly managerial positions, are filled by retired Pakistan Army officers, while local youth are forced to sell their lands and assets to finance their economic migration to other countries.
Raja emphasized that this constitutional racial discrimination by Pakistan’s occupying forces violates the Durban Declaration and Programme of Action. He criticized the international community for not adequately addressing the genuine concerns of the people of PoK and Gilgit Baltistan, which he considered a violation of UNHRC Resolution 21/33.
He called upon the UNHRC to intervene promptly and rescue the people from the harsh realities of Pakistan’s control over the region.
Pakistan has maintained control over PoK and Gilgit Baltistan since 1947, leading to numerous challenges including poverty, unemployment, and high inflation. Residents have protested against Islamabad, accusing the government of exploiting their resources while neglecting their social and economic welfare.