rki.news
By Altaf Hamid Rao
MIRPUR (AJK), November 3: Azad Jammu and Kashmir Prime Minister Barrister Iftikhar Gilani on Tuesday paid his maiden visit to Rawalakot and praised the people of Poonch for their historic role in the freedom struggle against Dogra rule in 1947.
Talking to the media, the prime minister described Poonch as a land of brave people who had raised the banner of revolt against Dogra rule. He said the people of the region had traditionally prioritised public welfare and contributed significantly to the development of the state.
Expressing concern over hardships faced by ordinary citizens, particularly schoolchildren and patients, he said road blockades had disrupted access to educational institutions and hospitals. He urged people to objectively review the situation and consider who was benefiting from the prevailing unrest.
He said there was no serious governance issue in Azad Kashmir warranting disruption of law and order. He also regretted that the future of the younger generation was being affected by the closure of educational institutions and restrictions on patients seeking medical treatment.
The prime minister said continued agitation was unjustified when public demands had been addressed and relief provided through reductions in flour and electricity prices.
Earlier, he visited Rawalakot city and CMH Rawalakot, where he received briefings from relevant authorities about hospital affairs and facilities.
Addressing a Police Darbar, Prime Minister Gilani paid tribute to police personnel and other law enforcement agencies for maintaining peace and security. He said the sacrifices of police martyrs would always be remembered.
On the occasion, he distributed financial assistance cheques among the families of police martyrs.
Chief Secretary Khushal Khan, Inspector General of Police Captain (Retd) Liaqat Ali Malik, Rawalakot SSP Khawar Ali Shaukat and senior law enforcement officers accompanied the prime minister.
