ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Monday ordered an immediate release of Rs 23 billion to resolve the issues confronting the people of Azad Jammu and Kashmir.
The prime minister decided to provide funds after thoroughly examining the situation in the territory, in a special meeting chaired by him on the subject, a PM Office press release said.
Prime Minister of Azad Jammu and Kashmir, AJK cabinet members, and senior leadership attended the meeting besides the federal ministers and leaders of the coalition parties.
The Kashmiri leadership and other participants of the meeting thanked Prime Minister Shehbaz for his decision to provide funds.
However, the demonstrators of the Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC) persisted with their march towards Muzaffarabad on Monday, disregarding the announcement of a Rs23 billion grant by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to address the issues in Azad and Jammu Kashmir (AJK).
[embedpost slug="president-urges-restraint-resolution-of-ajk-issues-through-dialogue/"]
This development followed violent protests in AJK against high electricity bills and taxes, as called for by the JAAC.
Meanwhile, AJK Chief Secretary Muhammad Usman Chachar stated that an agreement regarding the JAAC's demands had been reached and internet services in AJK were restored.
Despite this, JAAC leader Shaukat Nawaz insisted on continuing the protest until they received official notification confirming the acceptance of their demands. Nawaz emphasized the need for tangible government action rather than political assurances.
Today marks the fourth day of demonstrations, with AAC leading a march towards Muzaffarabad, causing disruptions along the Kohala–Muzaffarabad Road. The government has deployed Rangers and AJK police to maintain order after clashes during protests resulted in casualties and injuries.
Police presence has been reinforced at key locations, with businesses, schools, and transportation services suspended.
Prime Minister Shehbaz condemned the violence, urging all parties to pursue peaceful means for resolution. The AAC initiated protests against electricity price hikes and taxes, but tensions escalated into clashes with law enforcement.
Following the unrest, authorities arrested numerous individuals, and mobile and internet services were suspended across various AJK regions.
In Mirpur, communication networks were also suspended amid the escalating situation.
ifferent parts of the AJK witnessed protest demonstrations during the last coupe of days with the people seeking reduced electricity bills and taxes as well as subsidized wheat flour.
