Gilgit-Baltistan Activist Hails J&K Polls, Slams Pakistan's Role In PoJK

Senge Hasnan Sering, a political activist from Gilgit-Baltistan, praised India for conducting assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir. He noted that the voter turnout reached nearly 59% during the first phase, indicating hope and progress among locals. This is a significant improvement compared to the 10-20% turnout seen two decades ago, ANI reported.

Sering highlighted that these elections were held with full constitutional rights, allowing people in Jammu and Kashmir to participate as equal citizens of India. He contrasted this with the situation in Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK) and Gilgit-Baltistan, where he alleged that elections are manipulated by the Pakistani military for its own benefit.

He claimed that Pakistan lacks a legal framework to govern these regions. According to him, their elections are merely a facade to exploit local resources and facilitate trade routes with China. Sering also criticised Pakistan's economic decline, citing high inflation and external debt as major issues.

Sering warned of Pakistan's potential economic collapse without international intervention. He pointed out that the country struggles to provide adequate wages or infrastructure due to its financial woes. The activist also expressed concerns about PoJK being used as a base for terrorist activities targeting India.

He emphasised the growing threat from collaboration between Kashmiri and Khalistani militants. This alliance is reportedly supported by countries hostile to India's influence, such as China and those backing the Muslim Brotherhood. "It has never dismantled the infrastructure that promotes terrorism and exports it to India," he stated.

Sering noted a new dimension of terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir involving Khalistanis. The international community is worried about this collaboration between Khalistani and Kashmiri terrorists, which poses greater challenges for India. This partnership has led to increased attacks on Indian security forces and civilians.