GILGIT: The local civil service officers of Gilgit-Baltistan (G-B) on Friday said they would resist any move aimed at increasing federal officers’ share in G-B posts.
“There are reports the federal government under new reforms package is considering increasing share of federal officers of BPS 17 to BPS 21 in G-B,” said an officer who was part of G-B civil service association (G-BCSA), a body formed by local officers to protect their rights.
They endorsed centre’s policy under which chief secretary, inspector general of police and accountant general are federal officers in G-B as it ensures representation of the federation in region. “The vacancy sharing formula is meant for the constitutional provinces not for Azad Kashmir and G-B,” the officer told The Express Tribune on condition of anonymity to avoid backlash from higher ups.
G-B chief minister refuses to compromise on powers
A member of the G-BCSA said the establishment division in Islamabad is constantly violating the rights of G-B civil servants by posting more and more federal officers in the region which is yet to be a constitutional province.
Currently 25 federal officers of BPS 17 to 21 are serving in G-B.
The officers voiced concern over lack of representation of local officers in G-B Council, a body that serves as upper house in G-B but devoid of local officers. ”We demand at least 50% share be ensured for locals officers in the Council.”
Referring to petitions heard by Supreme Court of Pakistan over G-B constitutional status, G-BCSA said federal government admitted that G-B is not a province nor can it be made till the Kashmir issue is resolved but when it comes to implementation of its share in jobs in civil service it treats the region like a full province.
Courtesy: The Express Tribune
