Azad Kashmir
After several days of intense protests and uncertainty, life in Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) has begun to return to normal following a deal between protest leaders and the government. The agreement has brought much-needed relief to residents who had been facing disruptions in daily life, business, and mobility.
Background of the Unrest
The recent wave of demonstrations in AJK began over issues including rising electricity prices, taxation policies, and demands for better governance. Protesters staged sit-ins, blocked major roads, and clashed with security forces in some areas, creating a tense atmosphere across the region.
Markets, schools, and transport services had largely remained suspended for several days, with many families reporting difficulties in accessing essential supplies.
The Breakthrough Agreement
Talks between the protest leadership and government officials concluded late Friday, resulting in a settlement that addressed key concerns.
According to local media reports, the deal includes:
- Reduction in electricity tariffs for households and businesses in AJK.
- Commitments to review taxation policies and provide relief to low-income families.
- Release of detained protesters who were arrested during the unrest.
- Formation of a joint committee to monitor the implementation of the agreed terms.
Daily Life Resumes
Following the agreement, businesses reopened on Saturday, public transport returned to the roads, and schools welcomed students back to classrooms. The sense of relief was evident as shopkeepers resumed trade and families were seen returning to marketplaces.
In Muzaffarabad and other towns, security presence remained visible, but the overall situation was calm. Residents expressed cautious optimism that the deal would bring lasting stability.
Voices from the Ground
Local residents have welcomed the settlement but emphasized the need for long-term solutions.
“We are happy that things are normal again, but our concerns about rising living costs must be taken seriously,” said a shopkeeper in Rawalakot.
Student groups also urged the government to ensure educational institutions remain unaffected by political disputes in the future.
Political Reactions
Political parties in both AJK and Islamabad reacted to the resolution, with many praising the dialogue-based approach that ended the standoff. Some opposition leaders, however, criticized the government for “delaying action” and allowing tensions to escalate before reaching a deal.
Quick Overview in Table
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Cause of Protests | Electricity prices, taxation, governance issues |
| Duration of Unrest | Several days |
| Key Agreement Points | Tariff cuts, policy review, detainee release |
| Current Situation | Normalcy restored in markets, schools, transport |
| Public Response | Relief with cautious optimism |
Looking Ahead
While the agreement has brought immediate peace, analysts believe that sustained reforms will be crucial to prevent similar unrest in the future. Addressing structural economic issues, ensuring transparency in governance, and engaging youth in dialogue remain top priorities for stability in the region.
The return to normalcy is being seen as a positive step toward peace and development, but stakeholders stress that the promises made must be fulfilled in both letter and spirit to rebuild public trust.
Conclusion
The end of days-long protests in Azad Kashmir has provided much-needed relief to its people, who can now return to daily life without fear of disruption. The agreement between protesters and the government is a reminder that dialogue and negotiation remain the most effective ways to resolve public grievances.
