MUZAFFARABAD (Kashmir English): Former Prime Minister of Azad Kashmir, Raja Farooq Haider, has strongly supported the demands of police employees and urged the government to take immediate action. He warned that ignoring the concerns of the police force could weaken the state’s authority.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, Raja Farooq Haider said that the government must resolve the unrest among police employees and fulfill their demands without delay. He emphasized that the police are the backbone of state authority, and any dissatisfaction within this force can directly impact law and order.
He expressed disappointment that the recent Rs. 3.10 trillion budget made no financial provision for police department employees. According to Raja Farooq Haider, this is unfair to a disciplined and hard-working force that works round the clock in all weather conditions, whether it’s rain or heat, day or night.
Highlighting the issue of salary increases and disparity allowance given to other government employees, Raja Farooq Haider questioned why the police were excluded. “What crime have police officials committed that they are being treated unfairly?” he asked. He said this discriminatory attitude has led to widespread frustration within the police ranks.
The former premier praised the police for always being on the front lines during emergencies, disasters, or any challenge to the state’s writ. He said their service deserves equal treatment and recognition, just like other public servants.
He stressed that the demands of the police employees are legitimate and just. He called on the government to address their issues immediately to prevent further damage to the state’s image and stability.
He urged the government to recognize that all of the police force’s demands are completely valid and justified, and called for their immediate implementation to prevent any further weakening of the state’s authority.
