Security deployment, curfew expose governance crisis in PoGB

Mar 11, 2026

PoGB, 11 March 2026: Tension continues in Pakistan-occupied Gilgit-Baltistan, where a recently imposed strict curfew and heavy deployment of security forces disrupted normal life. Authorities had handed control of several areas to security personnel in an attempt to contain unrest following the death of Iranian Leader Ayatollah Khomeini, leaving residents struggling to access essential goods and services. Although restrictions are now partially eased, the situation in the region remains tense. Daily wage labourers have been among the worst affected, as many rely on daily earnings to support their families. During the strict curfew, residents also expressed frustration over the closure of markets and the difficulty in accessing essential supplies. The developments once again raised concerns about the governance of illegally occupied regions in Pakistan. Instead of addressing public concerns, the imposition of curfew and heavy security presence restricted movement and disrupted livelihoods, leaving residents struggling to manage daily necessities. Pakistan often fails to adequately address the concerns of ordinary citizens, particularly in the illegally occupied regions of Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK) and Pakistan-occupied Gilgit-Baltistan. Instead of addressing public grievances through dialogue and development, authorities often rely on administrative crackdowns. As a result, locals often feel that their basic needs and rights are overlooked, deepening frustration and highlighting long-standing governance challenges in these regions.