Section 144 imposed in Chilas after tribal clashes over land leave 15 injured

Chilas/Gilgit: District Administration of Diamer has imposed section 144 in Chilas, banning all political gatherings and protests. The decision was taken after members of the Sonewal and Batu tribes opened fire on each, and pelted stones, injuring 15 people, including eight policemen.

The tribes are feuding over pieces of land which will be submerged after the construction of the Diamer-Bhasha Dam. Ownership of land related conflicts have soared during the recent past due to huge amounts paid in compensation for requisition of land.

Police officials were injured today when they tried to intervene and stop a fight, while members of the tribes were pelting stones and opening fire on each other.

Local leaders from religious, political and social circles intervened carrying white flags to halt the violent clashes. Members of the tribes have camped in the disputed land in different locations to assert their ownership claims.

The situation remains tense in the region.