Amjad Ayub Mirza warns of potential constitutional integration of PoJK and PoGB into Pakistan
London, June 9
Human rights activist Amjad Ayub Mirza has raised concerns over reports surrounding Pakistan's proposed 28th Constitutional Amendment, cautioning that the move could pave the way for the formal incorporation of PoJK and Pakistan-occupied Gilgit-Baltistan into Pakistan's constitutional framework.
Mirza said that although the government has not officially disclosed the contents of the proposed amendment, recent political and constitutional developments have sparked fears that Islamabad may be preparing to alter the status of the two territories.
He noted that Pakistan has long maintained a constitutional distinction regarding PoJK and PoGB, administering both regions while continuing to present them internationally as disputed territories pending a final resolution in line with United Nations resolutions.
According to Mirza, neither territory currently enjoys full provincial status under Pakistan's Constitution. He warned that any attempt to formally integrate them could carry significant political, legal, and diplomatic implications.
Mirza stated that constitutional incorporation would strengthen Islamabad's legal control over governance, security, and major infrastructure projects, particularly in PoGB, a region linked to the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor.
He further suggested that domestic political considerations, including the expansion of parliamentary representation and greater centralised control amid growing demands for civil and political rights in the regions, could also be influencing the proposed move.
Mirza called on the international community, policymakers, and Kashmiri representatives to closely watch developments related to the proposed amendment and evaluate its potential impact on regional stability and the future status of PoJK and PoGB.
Pakistan's proposed 28th Constitutional Amendment has sparked debate over possible changes to the country's federal structure. Discussions suggest it may revise powers granted to provinces under the 18th Amendment, alter resource-sharing mechanisms, and strengthen federal authority in certain sectors.
— ANI
Reader Comments
Mirza's warning is timely. Pakistan has been trying to change the demography and constitutional status of these regions for decades. The international community must wake up and stop this charade. PoJK and PoGB are not Pakistan's to integrate!
Honestly, this doesn't surprise me anymore. Pakistan has been gradually integrating these regions since 1947. The only thing that will stop them is strong diplomatic pressure from India and the international community. We need to call this out at every forum possible. 🇮🇳
Let's be clear: This amendment is a tool for Pakistan to extend its control over CPEC and other strategic projects in Gilgit-Baltistan. It has nothing to do with the rights of the people there. The Kashmiri people deserve a plebiscite, not absorption into Pakistan.
Another day, another constitutional trick from Pakistan. They keep talking about Kashmiris' rights but never let them vote on their own future. This 28th Amendment is just a way to silence those demanding genuine autonomy. Shameful.
I appreciate Mirza's warnings, but this is a pattern we've seen for years. The real question is: Will India's foreign policy respond effectively? We need to strengthen our diplomatic outreach and remind the world that PoJK and PoGB are Indian territory under illegal occupation. No shortcuts here. 🕊️
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