Gilgit Baltistan: 2012 An Abysmal Year For Human Rights

According to the International Human Rights Observer 2012 has been a catastrophic year for human rights in the region, with a sharp increase in lawlessness.

A Gilgit based organization working on Human Rights related issues in Gilgit-Baltistan has painted an abysmal picture of the year 2012.  23 people, including 10 females and 13 males, committed suicide in different parts of Gilgit-Baltistan during the year 2012, according to statistics shared by Mohammed Farooq, Chief Coordinator of International Human Rights Observer(IHRO), GB Chapter. Most of the cases of suicide were related to familial disputes, while some were caused by distress due to financial constraints or other pressures.  Some people argue that in many cases murders are disguised as suicide and the criminals walk free due to lack of evidence, or by threatening and bribing the police officials.

Gender based violence also surged during the year, as at least six women were killed in cases related to honour and pride. One man was also killed in an “honour” related case. Two cases of gang-rape were also reported during the year. The culprits in one case were arrested and sentenced to life-imprisonment. Mob violence and targeted attacks took around 96 lives, while 23 people received major and minor injuries in cases attributed to sectarian violence. Most of these deaths occurred during the massacres and targeted attacks in Kohistan, Chilas, Lulusar (Babusar) and Gilgit city. The IHRO has said that increased lawlessness in Gilgit-Baltistan has put a question mark on the efficiency and ability of the novice government, the law enforcement agencies and all organizations working for maintenance of peace in the region.

Source: http://www.unpo.org/article/15428