Opinion
 
Sectarian violence in Gilgit-Baltistan
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April 20, 2012
Traditionally peaceful and serene Gilgit-Baltistan-(G-B) areas are in grip of sectarianism and extremism. These areas are strategically located and surrounded by troubled areas. To its east and northeast Chinese troubled region Xinjiang is located, to its north Afghanistan’s Wakhan corridor is placed, AJK to its south west and Indian held Jammu and Kashmir to its south east makes it strategically vital region for Pakistan.

There are four main sects in G-B, Shiites, Sunnis, Ismaelis, and Noorbakshis. Shia is the largest sect in G-B and mostly resides in Gilgit, Skardu, and Ghanche Distt. Sunni is the second largest community in G-B; they are mainly in Diamer district but also live in other parts of G-B. Ismaelis are also in majority in some parts of G-B, like in Ghizer District and sub division of Hunza. Noorbakshi community is in majority in areas like Skardu and Ghanche. Almost 2 million people lives in G-B region and almost 75% of the population of this area is Shiite. Traditionally these people are peace loving and has nothing to do with violence. But in recent time a wave of sectarian violence has jeopardized the peace of this area.

Sectarian violence is not a new phenomenon in Pakistan; it has plagued our society even before partition of sub-continent. But in recent times sectarianism has emerged unprecedentedly. Hundreds of innocent people lost their lives in sectarian clashes.

Shia-Sunni clashes emerged after the Iranian revolution in 1979 and General Zia’s policy of Islamaization. Both sects targeted each other with impunity. Saudi Arabia and supported Sunni Wahabi sect and Iran provided support and funding to Shiites in Pakistan. According to South Asia terrorism Portal- (SATP), more than 7,594 people lost their lives in sectarian violence in last 20 years.

In recent times Quetta, Karachi, Rawalpindi, Gilgit- Baltistan, Kohat, Peshawar, Lahore, Hangu, Parachinar and D-I-Khan have witnessed increased sectarian violence. Gilgit-Baltistan- (G-B) has been peaceful as compare to other areas but in last few weeks this area is under fire.

G-B is facing sectarian violence after the Kohistan bus carnage that resulted in death of 16 innocent passengers in March 2012. More than a dozen people were killed in the aftermath. Religious leaders given calls for strikes and whole G-B came to standstill. .

This saw worst violence of its kind in G-B after a rally of Sunnis was attacked with a hand grenade, killing six and injuring 50 others. In retaliation, 10 Shia passengers were killed in Chilas where an enraged mob set alight four buses, resulting in the imposition of a curfew and suspension of cellular phone service. Now Pakistan army is controlling the area but this is not the long term solution of the problem. Pakistan government has to take some concrete steps to ensure peace and stability in this region.

There has been a rumor that foreign hand is involved in G-B’s unrest, but in reality this menace of sectarianism is home grown and religious zealots are responsible for this mayhem and uncertainty. G-B police Inspector General Hussain Asghar has denied any foreign involvement. He said “I don’t think there is any foreign hand involved in the sectarian riots. The key thing in my understanding is the high rate of literacy without employment opportunities, which allows the frustrated youth to be easily used by some elements.” Recent sectarian violence in peace loving G-B is an eye opener for the government of Pakistan. This is the time that they must take effective steps on emergency basis to ensure peace in G-B. Government must establish industries in G-B and engage unemployed youth; otherwise our young generation in G-B may indulge in sectarianism.

The Ulema of both sects must come forward and play their due role and ease situation in G-B.

Civil society must also play a positive role and try to bridge gaps between both sects and promote inter-sect peace, harmony and tolerance.

Major political parties must also work for the stability of this region and should never allow their vested interests to override the peace of G-B.

Religious parties in G-B must also promote peace, love and harmony between both sects. Regular dialogue and avoidance of hate speeches can do the trick.

Last but not least, G-B is blessed with enormous natural resources. There is enormous potential in agriculture, hydro power, mineral and tourism sector in G-B. With peace in G-B these natural resources could be utilized for the betterment of the people.

Author is Research Fellow at South Asian Strategic Stability Institute Islamabad/London and can be reached at Masood.khatak@gmail.com

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