Gilgit-Baltistan United Movement facts for kids
The Gilgit-Baltistan United Movement (GBUM) is a political group based in Skardu, Pakistan. It works for the people of Gilgit-Baltistan. This movement wants the Gilgit and Baltistan regions to become a fully independent state. These areas were once known as the Northern Areas.
The GBUM believes that the Gilgit-Baltistan regions should be called "Gilgit-Baltistan." They also want the local council, which was once called the Northern Areas Legislative Council, to become an "Independent Constitutional Assembly." This new assembly would have similar rights to the one in Azad Kashmir.
Contents
Why the Movement Started
The Gilgit-Baltistan United Movement wants to bring back a time when the region was briefly independent. They believe this short period of freedom happened between November 1, 1947, and November 16, 1947.
A Brief Time of Independence
On November 1, 1947, the rule of the Dogra leaders over the Kashmir princely state ended in Gilgit-Baltistan. This meant the region was free for a short time. However, on November 16, 1947, forces from Pakistan entered the area.
The Idea of a Republic
A British officer named Major William Brown mentioned a secret plan. This plan involved the Gilgit Scouts, a local military group. They wanted to create a "Republic of Gilgit-Astor" after they removed the Maharajah of Kashmir's forces on November 1, 1947.
Working with Other Groups
Before the Gilgit-Baltistan United Movement (GBUM) was formed, there was another group called the Gilgit-Baltistan Democratic Alliance (GBDA). This group also worked for similar goals.
The Gilgit-Baltistan Democratic Alliance
The GBDA promoted the same ideas as the GBUM. It worked alongside the Balawaristan National Front. The Balawaristan National Front wanted an even larger independent area, which they called Balawaristan.
More Information
- Discord in Pakistan’s Northern Areas, Asia Report N°131 (International Crisis Group), 2 April 2007
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