Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has taken swift action to address the pressing issues facing the people of Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK), approving an immediate release of Rs23 billion after a thorough examination of the situation. The decision was made during a special meeting chaired by the Prime Minister, as stated in a press release from the PM Office.
The unrest in various parts of AJK, marked by protest demonstrations over the past few days, has centered on demands for reduced electricity bills, taxes, and subsidized wheat flour. The meeting, attended by AJK Prime Minister, cabinet members, and senior leaders, aimed to address these concerns.
Following the Prime Minister's decision to allocate funds, Kashmiri leadership and other participants expressed gratitude for the prompt response to alleviate the situation.
However, despite these efforts, protests in AJK have persisted, with the shutdown strike and demonstrations entering their fourth day. Talks between the AJK government and the Awami Action Committee (AAC) on Sunday failed to reach a resolution, with the AAC asserting that the strike will continue until their demands are met.
The valley remains at a standstill as the AAC leads a march towards the state capital, Muzaffarabad, today. Caravans from various AJK cities are converging on Rawalakot, prompted by the impasse in negotiations.
In response to escalating tensions, the AJK government has deployed Rangers after clashes between protesters and police in Mirpur on Saturday resulted in the tragic death of a policeman and injuries to numerous others.
