GILGIT: The 77th anniversary of the freedom of Gilgit-Baltistan from Dogra rule was celebrated across the region on Friday.

Special events were held in Gilgit, Skardu, Ghanche, Shigar, Kharmang, Astore, Diamer, Ghizer, Hunza, and Nagar districts to commemorate those who died fighting the Dogra rulers.

On November 1, 1947, GB Scouts liberated the region from Dogra Raj and declared the region an ‘independent’ state. They later joined Pakistan.

The region’s government had announced a public holiday to mark the day.

As part of the celebration, buildings were illuminated, decorated with banners and national flags, while pictures of national heroes were displayed on roads, homes and offices.

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A flag-hoisting ceremony was held at the Yadgar-i-Shuhada Chowk, Gilgit.

GB Governor Syed Mehdi Shah, Chief Minister Haji Gulbar Khan, Speaker Nazir Ahmed, regional ministers, X Corps Commander Lt Gen Shahid Imtiaz, Force Command Northern Areas chief Maj Gen Imtiaz Hussain Gilani, Chief Secretary Abrar Ahmad Mirza and other officials attended the ceremony.

They laid flowers at the memorial of independence heroes.

For the first time in the history of Gilgit-Baltistan, a parade was held on Nov 1.

The parade, organised by the army at the Helipad Ground, was attended by civil and military officials.

The X Cops commander said the freedom of GB was a source of “pride” and the “only achievement of its kind”.

He paid tribute to the “zealous and brave” people of Gilgit-Baltistan, who “liberated” the region and later joined Pakistan.

It is a manifestation of their “unconditional, matchless and unconditional” love for Pakistan.

“This action of yours made the enemy believe forever that Gilgit-Baltistan was, is and will remain a part of Pakistan.”

While addressing the ceremony, CM Khan said the brave people of Gilgit-Baltistan were proud of their ghazis and martyrs, whose sacrifices ensured their liberty.

Contingents of the army, GB Scouts, police, Punjab Rangers, cadet colleges Skardu and Chilas participated in the parade.

Commandos of the elite Special Service Group demonstrated free fall jumping and paragliding during the event.

Schools and colleges across GB also held functions and events to mark the day.

Children presented various national and regional songs and cultural dances.

Published in Dawn, November 2nd, 2024