Below is an article published by: PakTribune.

The people of Gilgit-Baltistan have no say in national affairs or legislation. They are deprived of the very right to vote.

Unfortunately, the federal government has not been able to give the people of these areas their fundamental rights and a proper system of representation.

With the promulgation of the Gilgit-Baltistan Empowerment Order 2009, Islamabad claimed accomplishment of the longstanding demands of the people of Gilgit-Baltistan.

The federal government counts this among its other phenomenal achievements, stating that the areas have been given autonomy and self-rule. However, the people assert that the current setup, with all the announced offices and positions, is cosmetic and superficial and the autonomy is rather shallow and unrealistic and the real power still lies with Islamabad.

The people of these areas have been peacefully demanding their political and constitutional rights but to no avail.

Owing to the strategically vital position of the areas, Pakistan cannot afford to neglect the issue for too long, as giants like India and China also have their interests in these areas.

Irked by the constant indifference shown by Islamabad the nationalists in the areas have started demanding a separate state and these elements are gaining popularity among the local people.

It is time the government made some substantial efforts to eliminate the grievances of the people of GB.

A fifth province can be established comprising the areas of Gilgit, Ghizer, Hunza Nagar, Skardu, Ganche, Diamer and Astore.

It will win these areas their constitutional status and Pakistan will be saved from a potential threat of internal instability.