Federal Ministers Reaffirm Commitment to Implement AJK Agreement Amid Challenges
Amir Muqam detailed progress, including the closure of 172 FIRs with only 15 serious cases pending.
ISLAMABAD: Federal ministers Amir Muqam and Tariq Fazal Chaudhry on Monday reaffirmed the government’s dedication to fully implementing the agreement reached with the Public Action Committee (PAC) of Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK). They highlighted significant progress on key demands despite the Joint Public Action Committee’s absence from a pre-scheduled meeting.
Speaking after a federal committee meeting on Azad Kashmir affairs, Federal Minister for Kashmir Affairs and Gilgit-Baltistan Engineer Amir Muqam stated that a 38-point agreement was signed with the PAC following public protests in the region. He noted that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif had formed a high-powered committee to oversee the accord’s timely implementation. Muqam said the Joint Public Action Committee was invited to the negotiations but did not attend.
He detailed progress, including the closure of 172 FIRs with only 15 serious cases pending. Employees suspended during protests have been reinstated, compensation paid, and jobs provided to heirs of those who died. Reforms are underway on local government, two new education boards have been approved, student unions restored, and an open merit policy in medical colleges implemented this year. A health card scheme is expected to launch by January 20.
Read more: Minorities Enjoy Equal Rights, Religious Freedom in AJK: PM
Additional legislative and administrative measures are in advanced stages, including an ordinance on property transfer, reforms to NAB laws, and e-tendering for electricity meters. The Civil Aviation Authority completed a feasibility study for an airport project, and a legal committee will be formed to address refugee seat issues.
Federal Minister Tariq Fazal Chaudhry recalled the protests posed serious risks, prompting the prime minister’s personal involvement. He highlighted two prime minister-led meetings reviewing implementation and shared progress reports. Despite violent protests causing 19 deaths, 177 FIRs were closed as a goodwill gesture. He warned that the Joint Action Committee’s absence could slow progress.
Both ministers stressed the government’s openness to dialogue and its determination to complete the agreement’s remaining steps in the interest of peace, stability, and development in Azad Kashmir.
Comments are closed, but trackbacks and pingbacks are open.