Pakistan’s Premier Confirms JAAC Protests Have Calmed Down

by Rachel Morgan News Editor

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif reviewed the law and order situation in Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) on Thursday, reaffirming his commitment to use all available resources for the prosperity of residents in Azad Kashmir and Gilgit-Baltistan. The review occurred during a meeting at the PM House with Federal Minister for Kashmir Affairs and Gilgit-Baltistan Amir Muqam.

Did You Know? The protests in AJK were launched by the proscribed Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC) and lasted for one month.

What is the current security situation in AJK?

The intensity of the month-long deadly protests launched by the proscribed Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC) has subsided, according to briefings provided to the Prime Minister. However, the situation remains mixed across different regions.

Protesters continue to stage a sit-in in Rawalakot, and demonstrations are still occurring in Rawalakot and its fringes. In contrast, reports indicate that the situation in Muzaffarabad and its surrounding areas is currently calm.

How is the government responding to public grievances?

Prime Minister Sharif directed relevant authorities to expedite the public service agenda. He stated that resolving public issues must remain the government’s top priority during the meeting with Minister Amir Muqam.

The session included Federal Minister for Public Affairs Rana Mubashir Iqbal, Minister of State for Power Abdul Rehman Kanju, and Special Assistant to the Prime Minister Talha Barki. Beyond the security review, the officials discussed the overall political situation in the country.

Expert Insight: The Prime Minister’s directive to expedite the “public service agenda” suggests a strategy to stabilize the region by addressing the underlying socio-economic grievances that fueled the JAAC protests, shifting from a security-first approach to a service-delivery model.

What other political discussions took place?

Former National Assembly deputy speaker and PML-N Khyber Pakhtunkhwa General Secretary Murtaza Javed Abbasi also met with the Prime Minister. According to a PM Office statement, the two men exchanged views on the country’s overall political situation.

PM Shehbaz Sharif Reads National Security Committee's Statement at Parliamentary Meeting

This meeting was also attended by Federal Minister Iqbal, Minister of State Kanju, and Special Assistant Barki.

What may happen next?

Government efforts to expedite public services may lead to a further reduction in protest intensity in Rawalakot. If the calm reported in Muzaffarabad holds, the government could potentially shift more resources toward the welfare and prosperity initiatives mentioned by the Prime Minister.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is leading the protests in AJK?
The protests were launched by the proscribed Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC).

Which areas of AJK are still experiencing demonstrations?
Demonstrations and a sit-in are still being staged in Rawalakot and its fringes.

Who attended the Prime Minister’s meeting regarding AJK?
The meeting included Federal Minister Amir Muqam, Federal Minister Rana Mubashir Iqbal, Minister of State Abdul Rehman Kanju, and Special Assistant Talha Barki.

Do you believe prioritizing public service delivery is the most effective way to end regional protests?

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