Diamer-Bhasha dam protest continues in Pakistan occupied PoGB

Diamer: Protesters in Pakistan-occupied Gilgit-Baltistan (PoGB) have pledged to continue their sit-in till their demands are met as the Diamer-Bhasha Dam demonstration enters its 38th day in a row.

Pamir Times posted a new video on Monday that demonstrated the growing number of religious components in the protest movement. Many protesters used religious fervor to emphasize their demands, while others used religious discourse and symbols to reaffirm their conviction.

The protest’s speakers emphasized their dedication to the 31-point Charter of Demands, which demands the realization of rights that the protesters say the government has disregarded.

In a speech, one speaker said, “We are standing against injustice, and our 31-point charter must be met.” Using religious themes to mobilize support, some expressed their willingness to make considerable sacrifices. One demonstrator even said, “We are preparing for jihad; we will place our chests in front of your bullets.”

“Ulema, scholars are still alive,” among other religious slogans, emphasized the movement’s increasing reliance on religious ideas. Additionally, protesters strongly cautioned anybody attempting to interfere with their actions, especially during the impending Eid festivities. One speaker forewarned that anybody who interfered with the festivities or the protest would suffer dire repercussions.

Long-standing worries about insufficient compensation, the lack of relocation, and insufficient assistance for livelihoods are the main causes of the current demonstrations in Pakistan-occupied Gilgit-Baltistan (PoGB). Numerous communities in the area are now vulnerable and unhappy as a result of these unaddressed concerns. Protesters remain steadfast in their demands, stating that they will not back down until accountability is maintained and fair recompense is given.

PoGB members often experience severe neglect in important areas, which exacerbates their marginalization. Because of their underrepresentation in government, their rights and interests are not effectively advocated for. They are unable to actively influence choices that impact their communities because of their political isolation.