"Gilgit Baltistan cannot end rights abuses without the help of the international community. The US must continue to be a beacon of light for the democratic spirit, to demand an end to colonial rule and support Gilgit-Baltistan in its struggle for a free nation," Senge Sering of the Washington- based Institute of Gilgit-Baltistan told lawmakers during a recent event at the Capitol Hill.
At an event organised by Senator Tim Kaine to mark Vietnam Human Rights Day last week, Sering said the UN Security Council resolution 47 declares Pakistan an occupier and aggressor in Gilgit Baltistan and calls for its withdrawal.
"People of the Gilgit-Baltistan demand accountability and transparency by Pakistanis and Chinese actors who exploit the region's mineral and water resources without ensuring local economic development or revenue share," Sering said.
The international community must question the Chinese multinational corporations who are building a multi-billion dollar economic corridor in an area without a constitutional framework, or a mechanism to hold government accountable under rule of law and where the people face suppression for demanding basic rights, he said.
You’ve reached your limit of 5 free articles this month.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
Already subscribed? Log in
Subscribe to read the full story →
Smart Quarterly
₹900
3 Months
₹300/Month
Smart Essential
₹2,700
1 Year
₹225/Month
Super Saver
₹3,900
2 Years
₹162/Month
Renews automatically, cancel anytime
Here’s what’s included in our digital subscription plans
Access to Exclusive Premium Stories
Over 30 subscriber-only stories daily, handpicked by our editors


Complimentary Access to The New York Times
News, Games, Cooking, Audio, Wirecutter & The Athletic
Business Standard Epaper
Digital replica of our daily newspaper — with options to read, save, and share


Curated Newsletters
Insights on markets, finance, politics, tech, and more delivered to your inbox
Market Analysis & Investment Insights
In-depth market analysis & insights with access to The Smart Investor


Archives
Repository of articles and publications dating back to 1997
Ad-free Reading
Uninterrupted reading experience with no advertisements


Seamless Access Across All Devices
Access Business Standard across devices — mobile, tablet, or PC, via web or app