Gilgit, Baltistan: The 76th Independence Day of Gilgit-Baltistan was celebrated with traditional zeal and fervor on Wednesday, marking a historic day in the region’s history. The Independence Day of Gilgit-Baltistan is observed on this day to commemorate the courageous efforts of the Gilgit Scouts, who liberated their homeland from the Dogra Raj in 1947, and famously arrested Governor Ghansara Singh.
The day’s commemorative events kicked off with a magnificent flag-raising ceremony at the historic Chinar Bagh in Gilgit. Chief Minister Haji Gulbar Khan presided over the ceremony, where Caretaker Prime Minister Anwarul Haq Kakar was originally scheduled to be the chief guest. However, he had to postpone his visit due to adverse weather conditions.
During his speech at the ceremony, Chief Minister Gulbar Khan emphasized the day’s significance as a moment to honor their martyrs and victors. He highlighted the heroic actions of those who liberated the region from Dogra rule without external assistance, urging everyone to remember the sacrifices made by their forefathers.
The ceremony was attended by dignitaries including GB Governor Syed Mehdi Shah, force commander Lt-Gen Shahid Imtiaz, Police Inspector General Afzal Mahmood Butt, Chief Secretary Abrar Ahmad Mirza, civil and military officers, and the relatives of martyrs and Ghazis.
Prior to the flag-raising ceremony, the GB governor, chief minister, and force commander laid floral wreaths at the Yadgar-i-Shuhada and offered prayers for the martyrs of independence.
The main Independence Day event was hosted by the Pakistan army at the FCNA helipad in Jutial Gilgit. The event featured a range of cultural performances, including regional dances and songs performed by students from schools and colleges across Gilgit-Baltistan. Cultural floats representing different divisions of GB were displayed, showcasing the rich and diverse culture of the region.
The celebrations continued with free-fall jumping and a polo match at the Wahab Shaheed Polo Ground, attended by the Governor and Chief Minister of GB. This historic night-time polo match, illuminated by floodlights, concluded with awards for the players and a spectacular fireworks display.
Independence Day festivities were also held in various regions of Gilgit-Baltistan, including Skardu, Chilas, Hunza, Gahkuch, Astore, Khaplu, Nagar, and Shigar, further strengthening the spirit of unity and patriotism among the people.
In a special message, Caretaker Prime Minister Anwarul Haq Kakar extended his warm felicitations to the people of Gilgit-Baltistan. He praised the historic valour displayed by the region’s inhabitants against the Dogra Raja and underscored the significance of Gilgit-Baltistan’s independence as a testament to the nation’s pride.
Kakar reiterated the government’s commitment to peace, prosperity, and development in Gilgit-Baltistan and expressed solidarity with the people of Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK), assuring continuous support for their right to self-determination in line with UN resolutions.
The 76th Independence Day of Gilgit-Baltistan was not only a day of celebration but also a reminder of the region’s rich history and unwavering commitment to the nation’s progress and unity.
