Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif allocates Rs23 billion for AJK protests

Recently, Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) witnessed a wave of protests due to high electric bills and taxes, prompting Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to take action. In response to the grievances expressed by the protesters, the Prime Minister swiftly allocated Rs23 billion during a high-level government meeting. This decision, made under the leadership of Prime Minister Sharif, aimed to address the challenges faced by the people of AJK.

The meeting, which included key representatives from the AJK government, Interior Ministry, Federal Minister of Kashmir Affairs Ameer Maqam, Minister of Energy Sardar Awais Ahmed Khan Lughari, and Minister of Food and Nutrition Rana Tanveer Hussain, highlighted the urgency of the situation. Prime Minister Sharif was briefed on the violent clashes that resulted in casualties and injuries, leading to his approval of the financial grant to assist AJK in overcoming these difficulties.

Despite the allocation of funds, protesters continued their demonstrations, expressing dissatisfaction with the outcomes of talks between the AJK government and protesters in Rawal Kot. The Chairman of the Awami Action Committee (AAC) emphasized that the protests would persist until their demands for fair electricity pricing, subsidized wheat flour, and an end to elite privileges were met. In response to the ongoing unrest, the police detained 70 activists to prevent a planned long march by the AAC.

The allocation of Rs23 billion by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif reflects the government's commitment to addressing the concerns of the people of AJK. As protests continue and demands remain unmet, it is essential for all stakeholders to engage in constructive dialogue to find sustainable solutions that benefit the entire community.