MUZAFFARABAD: Political tension and protest activities in Azad Jammu and Kashmir intensified on Tuesday, where clashes were witnessed between law enforcement agencies and protesters in different areas during the strike and protest rallies called by the Joint Public Action Committee (JAAC).
Due to the complete shutter-down strike in various districts of Azad Kashmir, business centers, banks, medical stores and transport services remained closed, while the shutdown of mobile data and internet services also caused difficulties in obtaining information.
Protest convoys from different areas, including Mirpur, Bhimber and Kotli, left for Muzaffarabad. According to reports, clashes also took place between protesters and police at some places, resulting in several injuries. Unofficial reports also mentioned loss of life; however, there was no official confirmation in this regard from the authorities.
On the other hand, the Azad Kashmir government has initiated strict legal action against some leaders of the banned Joint Public Action Committee. According to an official notification, orders have been issued to register sedition cases against Shaukat Nawaz Mir and Khawaja Mehran Arshad.
The government has also announced a reward of Rs 10 million for those who provide assistance in the arrest of the four leaders of the organisation. According to officials, law enforcement agencies are constantly monitoring the situation, and steps are being taken to restore law and order.
Meanwhile, Azad Kashmir Prime Minister Faisal Mumtaz Rathore has appealed to all parties to exercise restraint and find a solution to the problem through negotiations. He said that the solution to political differences lies in dialogue and the democratic process, and negotiations are indispensable for peace and stability in the region.
Human rights organisations have also expressed concern over the situation and urged all parties to take steps to reduce tension and ensure the safety of human lives.
