Sost, Aug. 26 -- Tensions are running high in Pakistan-occupied Gilgit-Baltistan (PoGB), where traders have intensified a sit-in protest at the Sost point, a strategic hub on the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). Led by local trade unions and supported by residents, the movement seeks to challenge what protesters describe as illegitimate taxation and decades of exploitation by Pakistan.

Attempts by authorities to disperse the demonstrators with tear gas and stun grenades have failed, only fuelling further anger. Protesters allege that security forces even opened live fire, leaving some injured. Yet, in a striking show of humanity, locals say they rushed injured policemen to the hospital reflecting the contrast between state aggres...