LEEPA VALLEY (Kashmir English): Azad Jammu and Kashmir Prime Minister Barrister Iftikhar Gilani visited Leepa Valley and held a late-night khuli kachehri (open public forum) near the Line of Control (LoC), listening directly to residents’ concerns despite severe cold weather.
Accompanied by Minister for Electricity and Energy Raja Saqib Majeed, former minister Chaudhry Muhammad Rashid and district administration officials, the Prime Minister received a warm welcome from a large number of local residents.
During the public forum, people highlighted long-standing problems, shortages of basic facilities and development-related challenges in the valley. The Prime Minister listened to their concerns and issued on-the-spot directions to relevant officials to address several issues.
Additional District Judge’s Court and Bar Association Issues
One of the major demands raised by residents was the establishment of an Additional District Judge’s court in Leepa Valley.
The Prime Minister assured the people that their demand would be addressed. The issue is expected to receive further attention during his public rally scheduled for the following day.
He also assured the Leepa Bar Association that its long-standing demand regarding dedicated premises would be addressed and indicated that a special grant for the association could be announced.
Financial Assistance for Fire Victims
Residents also highlighted the difficulties faced by victims of the fire incident at Kapgli Bazaar.
Responding to their concerns, Prime Minister Iftikhar Gilani said the relevant rules and regulations would be reviewed to facilitate financial assistance and provide all possible support to affected families.
Leepa Bypass Road Project
Regarding the Leepa Bypass Road, a significant development project for the valley, the Prime Minister assured residents that construction would proceed according to the previously conducted survey.
The project is expected to improve transportation facilities and provide better connectivity to several villages across the valley.
PM Pays Tribute to Pakistan Armed Forces
During his visit, Prime Minister Iftikhar Gilani paid tribute to the Armed Forces of Pakistan, saying that the nation sleeps peacefully because its security personnel remain awake throughout the night.
He reaffirmed his support for the Pakistan Army and expressed gratitude to Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir for the success of Operation Bunyan-ul-Marsoos.
Concluding the public interaction, the Prime Minister assured residents that all commitments made during his visit would be fulfilled.
“Rest assured, whatever I commit to while leaving the Leepa Valley will be implemented one hundred percent,” he said.
The visit has raised expectations among Leepa residents, particularly regarding the establishment of an Additional District Judge’s court, facilities for the Bar Association, financial assistance for fire victims and progress on the bypass road project.
Residents are now looking towards the Prime Minister’s scheduled public rally for further announcements and practical progress on the assurances given during the khuli kachehri.
