ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Govt has successfully resolved the tense standoff in Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) after days of unrest, marking what Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif called a “landmark achievement” in restoring peace and normalcy.
The breakthrough came following prolonged negotiations between the government’s committee and the Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC). The finalized agreement addresses several key demands raised by protesters and aims to improve governance, infrastructure, and social welfare in AJK.
Under the agreement, the Pakistan Govt announced that one family member of every protester who lost their life during the agitation will be given a government job. Families of both protesters and officials who died will receive equal compensation, while each injured individual will be provided Rs 10 lakh.
The government also decided to file anti-terrorism cases in connection with deaths during the recent violence. To improve education services, two new Secondary Education Boards will be set up in Muzaffarabad and Poonch within 30 days, linking all boards to the Federal Board.
In a major administrative reform, the Pakistan Govt will reduce the number of AJK cabinet members and administrative secretaries to 20 each. The Local Government Act will be restored within 90 days in line with judicial rulings.
Health care is also a major focus. Funds for health cards will be released within 15 days, and MRI and CT scan machines will be installed in all AJK districts through federal funding. Additionally, Rs 10 billion has been allocated to upgrade the electricity system.
The government further announced the merger of Civil Defence into the State Disaster Management Authority (SDMA) and the Accountability Bureau with the Anti-Corruption Establishment. AJK’s Accountability Act will also be aligned with Pakistan’s NAB laws.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif praised the efforts of all parties involved, saying that peace and public welfare remain top priorities for the Pakistan Govt. “We stand ready to serve our Kashmiri brothers and sisters and ensure their rights are protected,” he said.
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