These areas had so far been federally administered.

The government decision followed severe criticism by the Supreme Court for not giving fundamental rights like the right to vote on the people of northern areas which comprise the areas of Gilgit and Baltistan.

The apex court also ordered the Sharif government to frame a constitutional package for the areas within six months.

The government had argued in vain that it cannot do so because the area is a disputed territory and is awaiting a final verdict on the status of northern territories.