Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has convened an emergency meeting today to address the escalating situation in Azad Kashmir. The meeting, scheduled for this morning at the Prime Minister’s House, will include representatives from the Azad Kashmir government, the Ministry of Home Affairs, and other key officials.
Federal Minister of Kashmir Amir Maqam, Minister of Energy, and Minister of Food Security are among those expected to participate in the meeting. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif will receive a briefing on the current situation in Azad Kashmir, with important decisions anticipated during the meeting chaired by him.
The ongoing negotiations between the Awami Action Committee and the Azad Kashmir authorities have reached a deadlock, further exacerbating tensions in the region. In response, Leader of Opposition in the Azad Kashmir Assembly, Khawaja Farooq Ahmed, has reached out to leaders of various political parties, including President Azad Kashmir Barrister Sultan, President of the People’s Party Chaudhry Yasin, and President of the Muslim League-N Azad Kashmir Shah Ghulam Qadir, to seek a collaborative solution to the crisis.
Khawaja Farooq emphasized the importance of political unity in addressing the public grievances in Azad Kashmir, stressing that it is the responsibility of the political leadership to work together towards resolving issues that affect the citizens. He highlighted the need to address demands such as subsidies on flour and electricity supply at production cost, emphasizing that the ongoing conflict between the people and security personnel serves no one’s interests.
Meanwhile, it has been decided to extend the suspension of mobile phone and internet services in Azad Kashmir for an additional two days, in an effort to maintain peace and security in the region. The government has also issued a notification to close all educational institutions and district offices tomorrow, in light of the ongoing protests against electricity bills and inflation.
Protests have erupted across Azad Kashmir following appeals from the Public Action Committee, with caravans from various cities converging in Rawalakot. The public outcry underscores the urgent need for effective measures to address the grievances of the people and restore stability in the region.
As the situation in Azad Kashmir remains tense, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s emergency meeting signals a proactive approach towards addressing the challenges facing the region. With stakeholders coming together to discuss potential solutions, there is hope for a peaceful resolution that prioritizes the well-being and interests of the people of Azad Kashmir.
