Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has called for a high-level meeting on Monday to address the ongoing situation in Azad Jammu and Kashmir following unsuccessful negotiations between protesters and the state government.
Expressing grave concerns over the violent clashes between AJK police and protesters, PM Shehbaz emphasized a zero-tolerance approach towards unlawfulness. Speaking to X, he stated, “While democracy thrives on debate, discussion, and peaceful protests, there should be no room for lawlessness or damage to public property.”
These remarks came after the deployment of Rangers by the AJK government amid protests against high electricity bills and taxes, organized by the Jammu Kashmir Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC).
“In moments of turmoil, there are always those who seek to exploit for political gain,” added PM Shehbaz.
He revealed having conversations with AJK Prime Minister Chaudhry Anwarul Haq and instructed all PML-N officials in AJK to engage with JAAC leaders. “I urge all parties to pursue peaceful means for addressing their grievances. Despite attempts to derail, resolution is within reach.”
It’s worth noting that during clashes in Mirpur, one police officer lost his life and over 70 sustained injuries.
Meanwhile, the central leadership of JAAC distanced itself from the violent incidents, while negotiations between JAAC and the AJK government failed to yield results earlier today.
The AJK government is considering suspending mobile and internet services in response to violent protests. Today, services were already halted in various areas. The government announced the closure of schools and offices on Monday.
JAAC members assert their movement’s peaceful nature, disassociating from any violent incidents. They clarify that their protest is not against the state or any institution. Instead, they express ownership of their country and institutions, emphasizing their legitimate demands for resolution without resorting to destruction.
Govt ready to give relief
AJK Prime Minister Chaudhry Anwarul Haq pledged relief in electricity and wheat flour prices following violent protests. He assured implementation of agreements reached with JAAC, expressing readiness for further negotiations. Despite a police officer’s death, he praised police restraint and willingness for dialogue.
PM Haq emphasized addressing demands with the federal government and condemned protest-related violence. He affirmed prioritizing public security, readiness to adjust budgets for relief measures, and debunked social media propaganda.
AJK Peoples Party President Chaudhry Muhammad Yasin emphasized meeting the protestors’ demands, citing cheaper wheat flour and electricity in Gilgit Baltistan. He criticized the AJK PM for a perceived lack of understanding, lamenting the divide between the state and its people. Yasin condemned the use of force and violence by the AJK government.
President Asif Ali Zardari urged restraint and dialogue to resolve AJK’s issues during a meeting with PPPP members from AJK. He emphasized responsible action by political parties and institutions to prevent exploitation of the situation. Zardari promised to address AJK’s grievances with PM Shehbaz to find a resolution. He expressed condolences for the death of a police officer and wished a swift recovery for the injured.
AJK protests
Earlier this week, the AAC initiated a strike in AJK against electricity price hikes and taxes, leading to clashes between protesters and police. A sub-inspector was killed, and many others were injured in the ensuing violence.
Protesters damaged vehicles and caused closures of markets, offices, and schools. Police arrested numerous individuals, including protesters, in response to the violence. Section 144 was imposed across AJK, prohibiting public gatherings and rallies due to the AAC protests.
