Following a strong protest movement regarding public issues in Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK), the negotiating teams from the Government of Pakistan and the AJK Government have signed a historic agreement with the Joint Action Committee. Government circles have hailed the agreement as a manifestation of sincerity, commitment to the Kashmiri people, and a resolve for peace, stating that dialogue, not confrontation, strengthens the Kashmiri cause and that this accord marks a new beginning for development, justice and stability.
High-ranking government officials emphasised that this agreement, reached under the leadership of Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif and the Prime Minister of Azad Kashmir, reflects sincerity, seriousness, and a national spirit. Both the Government of Pakistan and the Government of Azad Kashmir opted for the path of negotiation instead of confrontation at every stage, proving once again their role as the true well-wishers of the Kashmiri people. Even after the unfortunate incidents of the past few days, the state demonstrated patience and forbearance, insisting on talks to safeguard public life and property and prevent further losses. The government’s clear stance is that the Kashmiri cause will only be strengthened through stability, justice, and development, thus prioritising dialogue over the use of force. This agreement has turned a crisis into an opportunity for peace and development.
The primary objective of the agreement is to provide immediate and tangible relief to the public. The following key steps will be taken under the accord:
Basic Relief: Immediate provision of subsidized flour, cheap electricity, and the restoration of the Health Card for the public.
Health and Education: Revolutionary changes in the health sector, including the provision of MRI and CT scan machines in every district and the restoration of health insurance. In education, new educational boards will be established and linked with the Federal Board to ensure equal opportunities for students across the country.
Governance Reforms: Agreement on a smaller cabinet, reduced bureaucracy, the elimination of unnecessary institutions, and the transparent use of public taxes to make the system more accountable.
Special attention has been given to development projects and the delivery of justice. A development package worth 10 billion rupees will be invested in the electricity system, roads, bridges, tunnels, and airports, which is expected to create employment opportunities and strengthen the economy. Crucially, the agreement stipulates equal compensation for both protesters and government officials who suffered loss of life during the recent incidents, reflecting the government’s stance that every life is of equal importance.
To ensure the transparent implementation of the agreement, a 15-day review committee comprising representatives from the Federal Government, Azad Kashmir, and the Public Action Committee has been formed. This committee will present every progress update to the public. The government delegation explicitly stated that the development, stability, and defence of the Kashmiri cause are possible only through peace, not chaos. The immediate restoration of schools, internet, and transport in Azad Kashmir is evidence that peace returns when intentions are sincere. This agreement sends a firm message that the state is run by trust, not force, and that this trust is built only through dialogue.
