In a recent development amid unrest in Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK), negotiations between the Joint Action Committee and the government have concluded successfully, sources confirmed.

The talks, facilitated by Chief Secretary Azad Kashmir and Commissioner Poonch, yielded positive outcomes. Sources added that the discussions centred on addressing the demands put forth by the action committee.

After extensive deliberations, an agreement has been reached, signalling a breakthrough in the standoff between the protestors and the authorities.

"The talks between Chief Secretary Azad Kashmir, Commissioner Poonch, and the Action Committee were fruitful, paving the way for a resolution to the grievances," stated an official familiar with the negotiations.

It is anticipated that the notification formally approving the demands will be issued imminently y and will be announced during a convened meeting, with representation from both the government and the action committee.

Committee refuses to relent in their protest 

Following the talks, the Joint Awami Action Committee remains steadfast in its stance, refusing to relent on their protest as a deadlock persists.

According to the committee, the protest will persist until an official notification outlining the implementation of their demands is issued. Asserting their determination, the committee declared that they would not disperse and return home until the notification is obtained.

Highlighting their commitment to their cause, the protestors emphasized that they are resolute in their decision, refusing to be swayed until their demands are met. A contingent of protestors embarked on a journey from Rawalakot to Muzaffarabad, demonstrating their unity and resolve in seeking redress for their grievances.

Additionally, the joint wheel-jam and shutter-down strike will be sustained, as affirmed by the committee. This resolute stance underscores the determination of the protestors to persist until their demands are acknowledged and acted upon.

On Saturday, turmoil gripped Azad Kashmir, as clashes between protesters and police escalated during the ongoing demonstrations against rising electricity bills. 

Normalcy could not be restored on the third day of the wheel-jam and shutter-down strike in Kashmir on Sunday, where an additional sub-inspector was martyred and 16 other police personnel injured in firing on Saturday. 

The situation in Muzaffarabad was tense, with businesses, markets and public transport closed completely in various cities. A couple of hotels and restaurants could be seen opened somewhere in the city. 

Meanwhile, 4G broadband internet service also remains suspended in Mirpur, Rawalakot and other cities across Azad Kashmir. The locals have complained about facing severe problems due to the internet shutdown. 

The funeral prayers for Adnan Qureshi, the martyred Azad Jammu Kashmir Police sub-inspector, who was performing his duty as additional sub-inspector, would be held at noon in Mirpur. 

PM Shehbaz urges for peaceful solution

Earlier,  Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expressed grave concern over the escalating situation in Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK), urging all stakeholders to pursue a peaceful course of action to address their grievances.

Taking to X (formerly Twitter), PM Shehbaz underscored the significance of dialogue, debate, and peaceful demonstrations in a democratic society. However, he vehemently condemned any attempts to resort to violence or vandalism, stressing that such actions would not be tolerated.

"Peaceful resolution through dialogue is the cornerstone of a democratic society. While dissent and protest are fundamental rights, they must be exercised within the bounds of law and order," Prime Minister Shehbaz remarked on his social media platform.