Independent Report
Gilgit-Baltistan, October 27, 2025
In line with national observances, districts across Gilgit-Baltistan commemorated Kashmir Black Day on October 27, 2025, with rallies, processions, and public gatherings expressing solidarity with the people of occupied Kashmir. The events underscored Pakistan’s enduring support for Kashmiri self-determination and condemned India’s continued occupation.
Gilgit:
A peaceful rally organized by the district administration started from a designated point and proceeded to Ittehad Chowk. Government officials, civil society members, students, and citizens from diverse backgrounds participated. Addresses by Commissioner Gilgit Division Tauqeer Haider Kazmi and Deputy Commissioner Captain (R) Arif Ahmed highlighted October 27, 1947, as the darkest day in Kashmiri history when Indian forces illegally occupied Kashmir. They reaffirmed Pakistan’s steadfast moral, diplomatic, and political support for the Kashmiri struggle.
Ghanche District:
A large rally was organized from Government Degree College to Qalam Chowk in Skardu. Led by Senior Provincial Minister Haji Abdul Hameed and Deputy Commissioner Captain (R) Arib Ahmed Mukhtar, the procession included clerics, government officials, students, and citizens. Officials condemned ongoing atrocities in Kashmir and called upon the international community to support Kashmiris’ right to self-determination.
Skardu:
Under the administration’s supervision, a major rally was held from the Administration Complex to Mehbub Chowk, led by Deputy Commissioner Skardu. Participants included officials, students, civil society members, media personnel, and the general public. Speakers emphasized India’s unlawful occupation and human rights violations in Kashmir and concluded the event with prayers for Kashmiri freedom and the success of Pakistan’s armed forces.
Rundu, Shigar, Ghizer, Gopis Yasin, and Astore:
District administrations in these regions organized large-scale rallies and programs. Officials, religious leaders, students, and citizens participated, chanting slogans such as “Kashmir will become Pakistan” and “Long Live Pakistan Army.” The events highlighted Pakistan’s unwavering support for Kashmiris and called on the international community to act in accordance with UN resolutions to end India’s illegal occupation.
Diamer-Bhasha Dam Visit:
Participants of the Induction Course at WAPDA Administrative Staff College, Islamabad, along with faculty members, visited the Diamer-Bhasha Dam project. At the main contractor’s camp, officials briefed them on the dam’s significance, construction progress, and objectives. The participants also inspected ongoing construction activities at the main dam site.
Gilgit-Baltistan Election Commission Update:
The Chief Election Commissioner of Gilgit-Baltistan, Raja Shehbaz Khan, has scheduled the preliminary hearing of a petition filed by the Gilgit-Baltistan government for October 28, 2025, at 1:00 PM. The petition challenges Notification No. ELC-1(1)/GBE/2025, dated October 21, 2025, which had suspended the government’s powers. Advocate General Gilgit-Baltistan, Minister of Law, and Secretary of Law & Prosecution have been directed to appear before the Chief Election Commissioner to assist the commission. The Election Commission emphasized its commitment to impartiality, transparency, and adherence to the law.
The nationwide observance of Kashmir Black Day in Gilgit-Baltistan highlighted public solidarity with Kashmiri people and reiterated calls for the international community to ensure justice and self-determination for Kashmir.
