In a recent development amid unrest in Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK), sources have confirmed the successful conclusion of negotiations between the Joint Action Committee and the government.
Facilitated by Chief Secretary Azad Kashmir and Commissioner Poonch, the talks have yielded positive outcomes, focusing on addressing the demands presented by the action committee.
Following extensive deliberations, an agreement has been reached, marking a significant breakthrough in the standoff between protestors and authorities.
An official familiar with the negotiations stated, “The talks between Chief Secretary Azad Kashmir, Commissioner Poonch, and the Action Committee were fruitful, paving the way for a resolution to the grievances.”
It is expected that a formal notification approving the demands will be issued imminently, to be announced during a convened meeting with representation from both the government and the action committee.
On Saturday, turmoil engulfed Azad Kashmir as clashes between protesters and police escalated amid ongoing demonstrations against rising electricity bills.
Normalcy remained elusive on the third day of the wheel-jam and shutter-down strike in Kashmir on Sunday, with an additional sub-inspector martyred and 16 other police personnel injured in Saturday’s firing.
The situation in Muzaffarabad was tense, with businesses, markets, and public transport closed in various cities, though a couple of hotels and restaurants were seen open in some areas.
Meanwhile, 4G broadband internet service remained suspended in Mirpur, Rawalakot, and other cities across Azad Kashmir, causing severe problems for locals.
The funeral prayers for Adnan Qureshi, the martyred Azad Jammu Kashmir Police sub-inspector, who was on duty as an additional sub-inspector, would be held at noon in Mirpur.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif earlier expressed grave concern over the escalating situation in Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK), urging all stakeholders to pursue a peaceful course of action to address their grievances.
Taking to X (formerly Twitter), PM Shehbaz emphasized the importance of dialogue, debate, and peaceful demonstrations in a democratic society. He vehemently condemned any attempts to resort to violence or vandalism, stressing that such actions would not be tolerated.
“Peaceful resolution through dialogue is the cornerstone of a democratic society. While dissent and protest are fundamental rights, they must be exercised within the bounds of law and order,” Prime Minister Shehbaz remarked on his social media platform.
