Gilgit-Baltistan Land Reforms Act passed by majority vote

Bill’s passage came despite fierce opposition from lawmakers inside assembly and sharp criticism from civil society outside

By Shabbir Mir
May 22, 2025
The Gilgit-Baltistan assembly seen in this undated image.— APP/File
The Gilgit-Baltistan assembly seen in this undated image.— APP/File

GILGIT: The Gilgit-Baltistan Assembly on Wednesday passed the Land Reforms Act 2025 by a majority vote during its 36th session, wrapping up two days of intense debate, political unrest, and public scrutiny.

The bill’s passage — which effectively repeals what many critics referred to as the draconian “Khalisa Sarkar” law — came despite fierce opposition from lawmakers inside the assembly and sharp criticism from civil society outside.