[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text dp_text_size=”size-4″]After a tumultuous two days of protests, the Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) government has reportedly agreed to all demands presented by the Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC), which had been demonstrating against high electricity bills and taxes.
Violent clashes erupted throughout Azad Kashmir between law enforcement and members of a rights movement amidst a widespread strike that brought the region to a standstill. Tragically, at least one police officer lost his life, and several others sustained injuries.Sub-Inspector Adnan Qureshi was fatally shot in the chest in Islamgarh while managing a rally headed for Muzaffarabad under the JAAC banner.
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The JAAC, primarily consisting of traders, has been advocating for electricity pricing in line with hydropower generation costs in AJK, subsidized wheat flour, and an end to privileges enjoyed by the elite class.
During the protests, aggressive demonstrators vandalized numerous vehicles, including a magistrate’s car on the Poonch-Kotli Road. Additionally, markets, trade centers, offices, schools, and restaurants remained closed across AJK.
Sources indicate that negotiations between a JAAC delegation and the territory’s Chief Secretary, conducted at the Rawalakot Commissioner’s residence, led to the government acquiescing to all protester demands.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]
