ISLAMABAD: Following the fourth day of the wheel-jam strike and violent protests against increases in electricity prices and taxes, Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) Prime Minister Chaudhry Anwarul Haq announced that the state government has agreed to all demands put forward by the Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC).
Addressing a press conference, here on Monday, PM Anwar emphasized the significance of two fundamental demands concerning affordable bread and electricity, stating that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif had assured full support to address the issues of the AJK people.
PM Anwar clarified that the government had no intention to disrupt the peaceful struggle of the AJK people and pledged not to interfere in any such future endeavors.
Despite law violations, he highlighted the government’s display of tolerance and patience during violent clashes with protesters, noting that over 100 policemen were injured while no protesters were harmed.
In response to JAAC’s demands, the AJK government issued a notification regarding subsidies for power and food commodities, with hopes for peace restoration following the implementation of these anticipated notifications.
Referring to the subsidies as a demonstration of the Pakistani government’s special bond with the region, Anwar credited the top political and military leadership for their solid relationship and respect for the AJK people. He announced a provision of Rs23 billion funds from Islamabad to the AJK government.
Acknowledging Pakistan’s establishment and the army chief for their special interest in resolving the issues of the AJK people, Anwar stated that the notification would take immediate effect and become a permanent arrangement included in the upcoming budget for FY2024-25.
According to the notification, the price of flour has been reduced from Rs3,100 to Rs2,000 per 40 kilograms. Additionally, electricity prices will be set at Rs3 per unit for usage between 1-100 units, Rs5 per unit for usage between 100-300 units, and Rs6 per unit for usage above 300 units. Commercial electricity rates have been fixed at Rs10 per unit for usage between 1-300 units and Rs15 per unit for usage above 300 units.
Earlier on Monda, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif 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).
This development followed violent protests in AJK against high electricity bills and taxes, as called for by the AAC.
Meanwhile, AJK Chief Secretary Muhammad Usman Chachar stated that an agreement regarding the AAC’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.
