MUZAFFARABAD (Kashmir English): Police officers across Azad Kashmir have started a province-wide strike to demand better rights and facilities. In major districts like Poonch Division and the capital Muzaffarabad, police employees have stopped their regular duties and are staging protests.
This is the first time in Azad Kashmir’s history that such a widespread police protest is taking place. In Rawalakot, officers from the Poonch Division gathered at the District Complex to raise their voices. They are asking for equal benefits like those given to other government departments and want long-standing issues resolved quickly.
In Muzaffarabad, employees are also staging a strong protest against the lack of increase in their allowances. A large number of officers gathered outside the District Old Secretariat, chanting slogans in favor of their demands.
Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Muzaffarabad came to the protest site to hold talks and invited the officers to come to his office for a discussion. However, the protesting officers refused. Despite several efforts by senior officials to negotiate and calm the situation, the police staff remained firm on their stance and continued protesting.
The protesting officers say they will not return to work until their demands are accepted. With routine duties suspended in several districts, concerns are growing over public safety and law enforcement.
Authorities have not yet announced any decision or steps to resolve the issue, and the strike is expected to continue until further notice.
