rki.news

Altaf Hamid Rao

MIRPUR, July 2: Deputy Mayor of Mirpur, Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK), Muhammad Ramzan Chughtai, on Thursday called for the immediate restoration of internet services and banking operations across the region, saying the common people are bearing the burden of the situation despite having no role in it.
Addressing a press conference at the Kashmir Press Club Mirpur, he said Kashmiris remain deeply attached to Pakistan and that their affection is unwavering.
He stated that “Kashmiris are more loyal to Pakistan than anyone else” and added that love for Pakistan is part of their faith and cannot be diminished.
Chughtai urged authorities to avoid intimidating citizens and ensure uninterrupted supply of food, medicines, and other essential commodities.
He said restrictions on transportation of essential goods were creating resentment and increasing hardships for ordinary people.
The Deputy Mayor appealed to Field Marshal General Syed Asim Munir to take immediate notice and help restore internet services, reopen banks, and ensure smooth supply chains.
He said people of AJK have always stood as Pakistan’s first line of defence along the Line of Control and supported peace and stability.
He added that AJK remains one of the most peaceful regions and its people do not support unrest.
Highlighting disruptions, he said suspension of internet services has severely affected students, businesses, and the public.
He noted that students face difficulties in examinations while businesses suffer due to lack of connectivity.
He further said closure of banking services has created serious financial difficulties for citizens.
Chughtai also criticized obstruction of food, medicines, and essentials at entry points, calling it unjust.
He urged the Inspector General of Police and Chief Secretary to investigate those responsible and take action against alleged corruption and irregularities.
He added that unemployment is rising and daily wage earners are among the worst affected.
He said many businesses remain open but cannot obtain necessary supplies to operate.
He also alleged that subsidized flour has not been available for the past month.
He further claimed funds for restoration of the power system have not been released and criticized poor governance, saying several public issues remain unresolved.
He concluded by urging immediate intervention to ease public suffering in AJK.