Peace march in Palandri calls for end to unrest in AJK

The rally began from Kotli Chowk and passed through various parts of the city before culminating at Kachehri Chowk, where a public gathering was held. Participants raised slogans including “This land is ours, we are its guardians”, “No to unrest in AJK ”, “No to violence”, “No to instability”, “Kashmir and Pakistan are one” and “What do we want?

Peace.”Speakers from political and religious parties and representatives of different sections of society expressed their resolve to promote peace, stability and protection of public rights in the region. In a joint declaration issued at the conclusion of the march, participants congratulated the government of Pakistan and the armed forces for playing a role as an intermediary for global peace.

They also rejected attempts to portray the ongoing rights movement in Azad Kashmir as an anti-state narrative. The declaration said the “everlasting bond” between AJK and Pakistan could not be weakened, adding that a strong and stable Pakistan was essential for the success of the Kashmir freedom movement.

It described Azad Kashmir as Pakistan’s “defensive bulwark” and called for preventing the spread of unrest in the region. The participants demanded that immediate elections be held in the seven constituencies of Rawalakot and Sudhnoti.

They also called for uninterrupted transportation of food and other essential commodities from Pakistan to AJK.The declaration demanded an immediate end to blockades and restrictions at entry points in AJK and Pakistan, saying such measures were causing hardships for the people and affecting travel and the movement of essential goods.

The participants also called on the AJK government to restore travel and educational facilities, particularly in Sudhnoti and Rawalakot, and demanded the immediate restoration of internet services across the region.

They urged authorities to simplify and expedite the issuance of documents required by people travelling abroad and called for the provision of wheat to flour mills in Azad Kashmir to ensure an uninterrupted supply of flour. The peace march participants also expressed concern over reports regarding the possible relocation of educational and administrative institutions from Rawalakot.

They urged the authorities to refrain from steps that could create a sense of deprivation among the people, stressing that the sacrifices rendered by the people of the region for the Kashmir freedom movement and the cause of Pakistan should not be overlooked.

The participants further demanded uninterrupted supplies of petrol and called for the immediate removal of all obstacles affecting the provision of essential commodities, transport facilities and communication services to the people.