MUZAFFARABAD (Kashmir English): The Prime Minister of Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK), Chaudhry Anwar-ul-Haq, has confirmed that the cabinet has officially approved the proposed Azad Kashmir Rangers induction. A total of 1,000 troops and 300 officers will be recruited in compliance with existing rules and procedures.
In an exclusive conversation with the Associated Press of Pakistan (APP), the AJK premier made it clear that the command of the Rangers Force will remain entirely under the control of officials from Azad Kashmir, and no individuals from outside the state will be included in the force.
Responding to recent controversies, he condemned what he described as “misleading and harmful propaganda” spread by certain quarters against national institutions. He warned that those involved in spreading baseless narratives would be held accountable.
Highlighting security concerns, the Prime Minister shared that the government is nearing the launch of a Counterterrorism Department (CTD) aimed at protecting citizens from the growing threat of terrorism. He stressed that the measure is crucial in light of the sacrifices made by Pakistan’s armed forces to maintain peace in the region.
Despite facing a fiscal deficit of Rs71 billion, Anwar-ul-Haq noted that the government managed to pay salaries before Eid, release funds to local councils, revive stalled development projects, and issue grants to universities. “Three fiscal quarters have passed under financial pressure, yet the government has delivered results,” he remarked.
He also announced progress in education and infrastructure, including the upcoming ‘Out-of-School Children’ project and a Rs3 billion Danish Schools initiative approved by the Prime Minister of Pakistan. Additionally, work on the Shounter Tunnel in Muzaffarabad is set to begin with federal assistance.
On the financial front, he said AJK Bank is on track to meet the requirements for becoming a scheduled bank by June 30. Digitalisation and structural preparations under the government’s scope have been completed, and the remaining process is in the hands of the bank’s management.
He also defended the Pakistan Army’s longstanding role in safeguarding the Line of Control and assisting the people of Azad Kashmir during emergencies. “Criticism of an institution that has served this region for over seven decades is unacceptable,” he asserted.
In closing, Prime Minister Anwar-ul-Haq underlined the importance of upholding national integrity and respecting the sacrifices of martyrs, warning that neglecting this responsibility could impact future generations.
