The federal government has appealed to the people of Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) to call off their planned protests, asserting that the majority of demands put forward by the Joint Action Committee (JAC) have already been addressed.
Federal Minister for Parliamentary Affairs Tariq Fazal Chaudhry, during a press briefing, emphasized that the government has undertaken significant measures to resolve public grievances in AJK. He cautioned against involvement in any agitation that might disrupt law and order in the region.
Chaudhry highlighted that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has consistently prioritized the welfare of Kashmir’s people, ensuring their concerns are integrated into national policy decisions. He noted that a high-level committee was established to engage with the JAC, resulting in an agreement that has largely been implemented. Additionally, a monitoring system has been put in place to track progress on these commitments.
Initially, the committee presented a limited number of demands, which later expanded. Chaudhry, most of these requests have been met, including the provision of electricity at Rs3 per unit, subsidies on essential goods, enhancements in internet services, the introduction of e-tendering for electricity meters, and the launch of a health card program in AJK.
He further mentioned administrative reforms such as reducing the size of the cabinet and streamlining government departments have also been carried out. However, he reiterated that constitutional provisions concerning refugee seats in the AJK Legislative Assembly cannot be changed without proper legislative procedures, dismissing calls for their immediate removal.
The minister urged citizens to refrain from joining any protest movements that could jeopardize peace and stability in the area.
Meanwhile, AJK government spokesperson Shaukat Javed Mir commended Pakistan’s armed forces and leadership for their steadfast support to the region, noting their crucial role during crises and in policy backing for AJK.
Former AJK prime minister Sardar Atiq Ahmed Khan also supported maintaining refugee seats, describing them as a vital component of the region’s constitutional framework until the Kashmir dispute is resolved. He stressed that Pakistan’s stance on Kashmir remains firm and warned against any actions that might undermine the long-established national position on the matter.
