The Gilgit-Baltistan (GB) Home Department has issued a letter seeking urgent assistance from the federal government, the four provinces, and the Azad Kashmir government regarding the whereabouts of former Chief Minister Khalid Khurshid. The letter was dispatched after it was revealed that Khurshid, who is wanted in connection with a case filed by the Gilgit Anti-Terrorism Court, is missing from the Gilgit-Baltistan region.
Khalid Khurshid has been convicted by the Gilgit Anti-Terrorism Court and a perpetual arrest warrant has been issued for him. He is facing serious charges under the Anti-Terrorism Act, including Sections 153, 505, and 506 of the Pakistan Penal Code. The case in question, registered under FIR No. 156/2024 at the City Police Station in Gilgit, accuses Khurshid of threatening law enforcement agencies (LEAs) and government officials, along with defaming them. Furthermore, he is charged with failing to appear in court despite repeated summons.
According to reports, the Gilgit Police have confirmed that Khurshid is not present in the Gilgit-Baltistan region, which has raised concerns about his location and possible flight from the jurisdiction. In response to this situation, the GB Home Department has formally requested the federal government and regional authorities in the four provinces, as well as the Azad Kashmir government, to assist in locating the former CM. The letter outlines the need for action to be taken by all relevant authorities to ascertain Khalid Khurshid’s movement and whereabouts, in order to proceed with further legal action based on the decision of the Gilgit Anti-Terrorism Court.
The Home Department’s letter emphasizes the importance of coordination between federal and regional agencies to ensure that the missing individual is located and brought to justice. It stresses the need for swift action and necessary directives to be issued to all concerned parties, so that they can gather vital information about Khurshid’s movements and status. The letter further underlines that the law must take its course in accordance with the ruling of the Gilgit Anti-Terrorism Court, which had indicted him in the case and issued an arrest warrant.
The case has brought attention to the increasing political and legal challenges faced by former officials in Gilgit-Baltistan. The charges against Khurshid, particularly his alleged threats and defamation of government officials, have raised concerns about the stability of law and order in the region. As the situation unfolds, the Home Department’s request for assistance reflects the seriousness of the case and the need for a unified approach to address such high-profile legal matters.
The missing case of Khalid Khurshid is also being closely monitored by political observers, who are watching for any developments that may shed light on his current whereabouts. The absence of the former CM from Gilgit-Baltistan raises questions about his possible evasion of the law and whether he may have fled the country in order to avoid arrest. The Gilgit Anti-Terrorism Court’s decision has put significant pressure on authorities to take decisive action and ensure that justice is served in this high-stakes case.
As of now, the search for Khalid Khurshid continues, with the authorities working to piece together information regarding his movements and whereabouts. The cooperation of the federal government, the four provincial governments, and Azad Kashmir authorities will be crucial in locating him and ensuring that the legal process moves forward. The case highlights the complexities of legal and political accountability in the region, with significant ramifications for both local governance and national politics.
Report by Faheem Akhtar
