Shehbaz Sharif approves Rs23bln to resolve problems of AJK people amid protests.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has taken decisive action in response to the ongoing protests in Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK), approving a substantial allocation of Rs23bln to address the region’s pressing issues.
This announcement came following a special meeting chaired by Prime Minister Sharif in Islamabad, where the current situation in AJK was thoroughly assessed.
Meeting Highlights:
The meeting, which convened in the capital, saw the participation of key figures, including the Prime Minister of Azad Jammu and Kashmir, alongside top political leadership and representatives from coalition parties.
Discussions centered on evaluating the challenges facing the region and formulating a strategic response to restore stability.
Acknowledgment and Appreciation:
During the meeting, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s announcement regarding the provision of funds was met with gratitude and appreciation from the Kashmiri leadership and other participants.
A Huge Rally in Azad Kashmir. pic.twitter.com/xpTvZur5Dq
— Anwar Lodhi (@AnwarLodhi) May 12, 2024
This acknowledgment underscores the significance of immediate financial support in addressing the pressing needs of the people of AJK.
Escalation of Unrest:
Despite these efforts, Azad Kashmir has recently witnessed a surge in violence due to inflation, with clashes erupting between law enforcement authorities and activists of a rights movement.
The situation escalated during a wheel-jam and shutter-down strike across the territory, resulting in casualties and widespread disruption.
Incident Details:
Tragically, Sub-inspector Adnan Qureshi lost his life during the clashes, succumbing to a gunshot wound in the chest while deployed in Islamgarh.
The violence extended to property damage, with multiple vehicles, including a magistrate’s car, vandalized along the Poonch-Kotli road.
The situation in Azad Kashmir is getting tense as the regime tries to exercise force against the protestors. Firing tear gas shells on people passing by.
The Kashmiris are not relenting and giving a deserved responsepic.twitter.com/zQMcQ0lOQc
— Justuju – جستجو (@justujuuu) May 11, 2024
Moreover, the closure of markets, trade centers, offices, schools, and restaurants across AJK highlighted the gravity of the unrest.
Stakeholder Engagement:
In response to the volatile situation, the government has emphasized the importance of engaging with all stakeholders to address the underlying grievances fueling the unrest.
The inclusivity of the meeting, with participation from diverse political entities and Kashmiri leadership, reflects a commitment to fostering dialogue and cooperation in seeking solutions.
