Normal life has returned to Azad Kashmir after six days of strikes and protests, following successful negotiations between the federal government and the Joint Public Action Committee (JPAC).
Shops, transport, and communication services have reopened across Bhimber, Mirpur, Rawalakot, and other cities, as the government announced a sweeping agreement addressing long-standing demands.
Security sources on India and Kashmir issue
Security officials, while commenting on the unrest, said the Azad Kashmir issue should not have escalated to this point. They accused India of exploiting the situation for propaganda against Pakistan.
“Our Kashmiri brothers have always stood with Pakistan,” the sources said, adding that Indian Defense Minister Rajnath Singh was “not credible” and “should not be believed in anything he says.”
They warned that if India attempted anything similar to Operation Sindoor, Pakistan was fully prepared to respond. “We are aware of the weapons India is buying and know how to handle them. They will be treated better than before. We have no worries, no concerns,” the sources added.
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The officials also highlighted success in curbing smuggling in Balochistan, noting that diesel is now being imported legally. On the matter of former ISI chief General Faiz Hameed’s case, they said the process was ongoing and being reviewed from every angle. "The defendant is given all legal rights in the case," they said.
Strike ends after six days
In Bhimber, Mirpur and Rawalakot commercial activities, internet, and mobile services were restored on the seventh day after federal ministers reached an agreement with JPAC. People returned to markets for food and daily necessities, while public transport services resumed across Mirpur, Rawalakot, and other districts.
Negotiations brought relief to residents after days of tension, with the strike and shutdown officially ending.
Key points of agreement
According to the agreement shared on social media by the federal government, the following commitments were made:
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Cabinet Size: The Azad Kashmir cabinet will not exceed 20 ministers and advisers.
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Refugee Seats: A high-powered committee with representatives from the federal government, Azad Kashmir government, and JPAC will review refugee seats in the assembly. Privileges, funds, and concessions for refugee MLAs are suspended until the report is finalized.
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Healthcare: Health card funds will be released within 15 days. MRI and CT scan machines will be installed in every district in phases.
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Electricity System: The federal government will provide Rs10 billion for electricity infrastructure improvements.
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Mangla Dam Victims: Land possession for families affected by the Mangla Dam project will be regularized within 30 days.
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Education: Two new education boards will be established in Muzaffarabad and Poonch, linked to the federal board.
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Accountability: The accountability bureau and Anti-Corruption Bureau will be merged, and the Accountability Act will be aligned with Pakistan’s NAB laws.
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Infrastructure: Feasibility studies will be conducted for two tunnels on the Neelum Valley Road. The Mirpur Airport timeline will be announced in the current financial year.
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Judicial Inquiry: A judicial commission headed by a high court judge will investigate violent incidents in Banjosa, Muzaffarabad, Dhirkot, and other areas. Cases will be registered under the Anti-Terrorism Act over the deaths in the violent incidents.
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Property Tax: To be aligned with Punjab and KP rates within three months. Funds will also be allocated for water supply schemes, hospitals, and schools.
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Compensation: Families of those killed in protests will receive financial aid equal to officials, with one family member given a government job within 20 days. Injured protesters will be compensated with Rs1 million each.
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Prisoners: All arrested protesters will be released.
Leaders react to agreement
At a press conference in Islamabad, National Assembly Speaker Raja Pervaiz Ashraf said immediate steps were necessary to resolve the crisis. “This country belongs to all of us. The bloodshed was regrettable, but an immediate solution was found,” he stated.
Qamar Zaman Kaira echoed this sentiment, saying: “I deeply regret the violence during protests, but the agreement ensures lasting peace and relief for the people of Azad Kashmir.”
