- The current situation in PoK, which was captured by Pakistan, is like a fire
- People of PoK are suffering from inflation but the government is cool
- Even as the situation worsens in PoK, the government is appealing for peace
The situation in PoK, which has been annexed by the neighboring country Pakistan, is like a huge fire. The situation remained tense on Monday due to steep hike in electricity bills, taxes and prices of flour. The total strike in the area against inflation continued for the fourth day. Clashes broke out between security personnel and protesters on Saturday amid the worsening situation. After this clash, Pakistan government is making efforts to calm the situation.
The Prime Minister will discuss the current situation
A policeman was killed in an encounter in the area on Saturday. About 100 were also injured during the demonstration, most of them policemen. A total strike has been going on in the area since Friday. In view of this tense situation, Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif may call a high-level meeting on Tuesday. Inflation is likely to be discussed in the meeting.
The Jammu and Kashmir Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC) is demanding abolition of electricity provisions, subsidy on wheat flour and other privileges in the region. A rally was taken out for Muzaffarabad, the capital of Pakistan Occupied Kashmir, on Monday under the leadership of JAAC. An opposition leader from Rawalkot accused the government of adopting evasive tactics.
Trying to calm the tension
According to the information, the demonstrators had already staged dharnas at many places. A large number of police forces have been deployed on the roads and in some areas. Markets, business centers and educational institutions remained closed. The Prime Minister of Pakistan said that he had spoken to the (illegally appointed) Prime Minister of PoK, Chaudhary Anwarul Haq. Along with this he also joined the Pakistan Muslim League
In an attempt to calm the tension, President Asif Ali Zardari asked everyone to act with restraint and resolve the issue through mutual discussion. He said that the demands of the people of this area should be addressed as per the rules.
