The Awami Action Committee (AAC)-led long march, a protest against inflated utility bills and taxes, departed for Muzaffarabad, the capital of Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK), amidst ongoing violent clashes and unrest. As the fourth day of the shutter-down strike unfolds, tensions escalate, prompting significant responses from both governmental and oppositional entities.
Demonstrators have blockaded the 40-kilometer long Kohala-Muzaffarabad Road, paralyzing the region’s transport system and leading to disruptions in daily life. Despite efforts to maintain peace, clashes between protestors and law enforcement authorities have resulted in casualties and injuries, further exacerbating the situation.
In response to the escalating tensions, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has convened a high-level meeting to address the ongoing crisis. Expressing deep concerns over the violent clashes, PM Shehbaz emphasized the need for adherence to the rule of law and called for peaceful resolution of demands through dialogue.
Similarly, President Asif Ali Zardari has urged all stakeholders to exercise restraint and engage in dialogue to resolve the issues in AJK. He emphasized the importance of addressing the grievances of the people of AJK while condemning the violence and loss of life.
Meanwhile, the central leadership of the AAC has distanced itself from the violent incidents, emphasizing the peaceful nature of their movement. However, clashes between protestors and police continue, resulting in casualties and injuries on both sides.
As the situation remains tense, authorities have taken measures to restore order, including arrests of individuals involved in violent activities and suspension of mobile phone and internet services in affected areas.
The ongoing protests highlight the deep-seated grievances of the people of AJK and underscore the importance of addressing their concerns through peaceful dialogue and effective governance. As the AAC-led long march progresses, hopes remain for a peaceful resolution to the escalating tensions in the region.
