GILGIT: Interior Minister of Gilgit-Baltistan Shams Lone has urged religious scholars to advocate for peace, brotherhood and harmony. He highlighted that the true beauty of Gilgit-Baltistan lies in its tranquility and mutual respect for diverse beliefs.
Speaking to media representatives in Gilgit he commended the positive and pivotal role played by scholars of all sects in maintaining peace in the region. He advised Ulmas to recognize the sensitivities of Gilgit-Baltistan and refrain from making irresponsible or prejudiced statements. “Unnecessary ambiguity or confusion among the public must be avoided,” he emphasized.
The provincial interior minister reaffirmed that the government’s top priority is the region’s peace and security. “No one will be allowed to disrupt the peace of Gilgit-Baltistan,” he stated, adding that the government would not compromise on matters of peace and is taking serious measures to ensure law and order.
He further noted that the Gilgit-Baltistan government, state institutions and the Pakistan Armed Forces are working in unison to uphold the region’s strategic, defense and tourism significance while striving for lasting peace.
Meanwhile, Deputy Inspector General (DIG) of Police, Hazara Range, Nasir Mehmood Satti has sought the support of ulema, elders and the business community to maintain peace in Upper Kohistan.
“Your district holds significant strategic importance, as mega energy projects like the Diamer-Basha and Dasu hydropower projects are being executed here. You should inform us immediately about the presence of any strangers, as the security of Chinese nationals is our top priority,” he told a gathering of local elders, clerics, business community members, and dispute resolution councils in Dasu, the headquarters of Upper Kohistan district.
He said that the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa police have been utilising all available resources to ensure the safety and security of Chinese engineers and workers involved in constructing the 8,600-megawatts Diamer-Bhasha and Dasu Hydropower projects.
“We have planned the establishment of additional police stations and an increase in the number of personnel in the existing force to ensure the safety of Chinese nationals, foreigners and local tourists travelling through the Karakoram Highway to Gilgit-Baltistan,” he added.
Satti also addressed police personnel in Darband, instructing them to remain vigilant on the Karakoram Highway and in their duties elsewhere.“We are implementing all possible measures for your welfare and your families, but you must remain honest and trustworthy in performing your duties,” he added.
The DIG emphasised that the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa police have a proud history of sacrifices for the safety and protection of citizens.“We must uphold the legacy of our brave force and prioritise the safety of our Chinese guests over our own lives,” he said.
Meanwhile, the DIG paid surprise visits to police stations and check posts in the Lower Kohistan and Kolai-Palas districts.He also met with police personnel and reviewed the law and order situation in the region.
