GILGIT: The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) has voiced concern over extensive power outages and internet disruption in Gilgit-Baltistan and demanded the recovery of a 13-year-old girl who was reportedly abducted recently.

In a press conference held on Friday, HRCP co-chairperson Munizae Jahangir, alongside regional coordinator Israruddin Israr, political leader Baba Jan and women’s rights activist Yasmin Kareem, highlighted the violation of human rights in the region.

She said it was alarming that GB residents were facing over 22 hours of daily power outages and pointed out the severe repercussions of the electricity crisis on the daily lives of residents.

She also brought attention to internet disruptions in the region, urging immediate action to resolve these critical issues.

Voices concern over girl’s abduction

Ms Jahangir also raised concern over the abduction of 13-year-old Falak Noor and questioned the effectiveness of the local police force. On Thursday, GB Chief Court Chief Justice Ali Baig directed the region’s police to produce the girl in court.

Ms Jahangir criticised the police for their alleged support of the accused and stressed the importance of a fair trial to determine the girl’s age. She called on the governments of Gilgit-Baltistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa to ensure justice for Falak Noor’s family.

The HRCP co-chairperson also highlighted the lack of a forensic lab in the region to investigate sensitive cases, mentioning the case of an 18-year-old girl found in the Gilgit River after missing for 24 days.

Published in Dawn, March 30th, 2024