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Escalation of Propaganda Against Pro-Independence Leaders in Pakistan-Administered Jammu and Kashmir

Kotli: July 8, 2024, Kotli Pakistan-Administered Jammu and Kashmir: In the aftermath of a humiliating defeat in a recent public movement, Pakistani agencies have intensified their campaign against pro-independence leaders in Pakistan-administered Jammu and Kashmir. Despite the tragic killing of four young activists, the thirst for retribution among these agencies shows no signs of abating.

Propaganda and Threats

Dr. Toqeer Gilani, a prominent pro-independence leader, and his allies are facing relentless smear campaigns and threats. Pakistani agencies and their local operatives are actively labeling these leaders as Indian agents, spreading malicious propaganda through public and social media channels.

Fake identities, audio, and screenshots are being manufactured and attributed to Dr. Gilani and his associates, aiming to tarnish their reputation and undermine their struggle.

In a recent social media post, Dr. Toqeer Gilani highlighted the concerted efforts to damage their movement and warned supporters against falling prey to such deceitful tactics. He urged the public to scrutinize any propaganda and seek the truth directly from the source.

Emphasizing that their lives, struggles, and actions are transparent and well-documented, he called on friends, allies, and supporters to remain vigilant and not inadvertently support the vile campaigns of oppressive institutions and their affiliates.

Unyielding Commitment

Dr. Gilani reaffirmed his and his allies’ unwavering commitment to their cause. He stated that no amount of malicious propaganda or conspiracies could deter them from their rightful path. Their resolve remains steadfast in the face of ongoing threats and smear campaigns.

Conclusion

The ongoing situation highlights the severe challenges faced by pro-independence leaders in Pakistan-administered Jammu and Kashmir. As they continue to fight for their rights and freedom, the hostile actions of Pakistani agencies and their collaborators serve as a stark reminder of the obstacles to their movement. Dr. Toqeer Gilani’s call for solidarity and vigilance resonates strongly within the community, reinforcing their dedication to the struggle for independence.

About Dr. Toqeer Gilani

Dr. Toqeer Gilani is a leading pro-independence figure in Pakistan-administered Jammu and Kashmir, known for his relentless advocacy for freedom and rights. His efforts have inspired many, despite facing significant opposition and threats.

Azad Kashmir Cabinet Finalizes Reduction in Electricity Rates

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Muzaffarabad, Azad Kashmir (PaJK) , July 7, 2024 — The Azad Kashmir Cabinet has given final approval to a reduction in electricity rates.

In Muzaffarabad, the Cabinet approved the previous notification setting the electricity price at PKR 3 per unit. Additionally, it approved the payment of all outstanding electricity bills in 12 equal installments.

The notification regarding the reduction in electricity rates, issued on May 13, was deliberated for two months. The Public Action Committee had announced a boycott of electricity bills until the price was set at PKR 3 per unit.

With the Cabinet’s final approval of the reduced electricity rates, the price per unit for domestic electricity in Azad Kashmir will now be PKR 3. Following the state-wide protests led by the Public Action Committee, Prime Minister of Pakistan, Mian Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif, announced a historic package for Kashmir, which included the approval of PKR 23 billion.

According to the notification issued by the Department of Energy, the price for up to 100 units of electricity will be PKR 3 per kilowatt-hour, while for commercial electricity, the price per unit will be PKR 10 for up to 300 units.

For usage between 100 and 300 units, the price will be PKR 5 per unit, and for usage above 300 units, the price will be PKR 6 per unit. Previously, the price for usage above 300 units was set at PKR 15 per unit.

In the meeting chaired by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, a PKR 23 billion package for Kashmir was announced, which also included the implementation of a flour subsidy.

Following this, the Department of Food, Azad Kashmir, reduced the current price of a 40-kilogram bag of flour from PKR 3100 by PKR 1100. Now, a 20-kilogram bag of flour is available for PKR 1000, and a 40-kilogram bag is available for PKR 2000. Additionally, there was a reduction of PKR 1100 on a 40-kilogram bag of flour in Azad Kashmir.

After two months of deliberation, the Government of Azad Kashmir has finally approved the reduction in electricity prices, which was notified on July 4, 2024.

School Bus Accident in Bagh: Runaway Coaster Hits Multiple Vehicles

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Bagh, Azad Kashmir (PaJK) July 6, 2024 — A school bus (number K2247) returning from a student tour to Rawalakot met with an accident in Bagh city after its brakes failed while descending from Ganga Choti.

The out-of-control coaster hit several vehicles, including a rickshaw and a car, before continuing for half a kilometer. It finally came to a halt after colliding with a stationary truck near Abbasi Hotel. The accident resulted in injuries to several pedestrians.

Rescue operations saw the participation of local traders, administration, police, and transporters. Fortunately, the students on board the coaster were unharmed.

However, a teacher and one student seated at the front sustained injuries and were transported to Al-Shifa Hospital, District Hospital, and MDS for treatment.

The incident highlights the urgent need for stringent safety checks on school transport vehicles to prevent such accidents in the future. Further investigations are ongoing to determine the cause of the brake failure.

Police Raid in Dadyal: Brothel Busted, Two Women and One Man Arrested

Dadyal, July 6, 2024 — In a crackdown on illegal activities, Dadyal Police conducted a raid on a brothel, arresting two women and one man. The operation was led by SHO Rashid Habib and Sub-Inspector Imran Syed, along with DFCs Nasib Ahmed and Tahir Abbas.

The raid took place at a den in Dadyal, Azad Kashmir administered Kashmir) where the police found individuals in a compromising position. Among the arrested were a madam from Jhelum and a man named Safeer, a resident of Bihar.

The madam had reportedly brought a woman from Lahore to the den for prostitution, charging visitors for illicit activities.

Following the arrests, the police conducted medical examinations of the suspects. Efforts are ongoing to apprehend other individuals involved in the operation. A case has been registered against the arrested suspects, and further investigations are underway.

This raid underscores the commitment of Dadyal Police to curbing illegal activities and maintaining law and order in the region.

Gilgit-Baltistan: Gilgit Traffic Police Release Annual Report on Traffic Violations

Gilgit, July 5, 2024: The Traffic Police of Gilgit District of Gilgit Baltistan (Pakistan administered Kashmir) have released their comprehensive annual report detailing the disciplinary actions taken against traffic violators from July 1, 2023, to June 30, 2024.

The report reveals that a total of 20,415 traffic violators were penalized over the past year. The key highlights are as follows:

  • Driving Without a License: 3,061 individuals were fined for driving without a license.
  • Underage Driving: 2,085 individuals were fined for underage driving.
  • One-Wheeling: 12 violators were penalized for performing one-wheeling stunts.
  • Unregistered Vehicles: 4,716 individuals were fined for driving unregistered vehicles.
  • Riding Without a Helmet: 5,828 individuals were fined for riding motorcycles without helmets.
  • Obstructing Traffic: 31 individuals were fined for causing obstructions in traffic.
  • Parking and Encroachments: 4,652 individuals were fined for improper parking and encroachments.
  • Other Traffic Violations: 30 individuals were fined for various other traffic violations.

In addition to these fines, two separate cases were registered at City Police Station Gilgit against individuals for attacking traffic police officers and interfering with their official duties.

The fines collected from these violations amounted to PKR 6,228,750, which has been deposited into the government treasury.

“Ensuring smooth traffic flow and upholding traffic laws is our top priority,” stated Muhammad Ayaz, SSP Gilgit. “We will deal with those who disrupt traffic flow with an iron hand. Speeding, one-wheeling, and underage driving are tantamount to suicide.”

The Traffic Police of Gilgit District remain committed to enforcing traffic regulations and ensuring the safety and order of the roads. This report underscores their dedication to maintaining strict adherence to traffic laws and their efforts to mitigate road safety hazards.

For further information and detailed statistics, the full report is available upon request from the Gilgit District Traffic Police.

Two Dangerous Convicts Recaptured After Daring Escape from Rawalakot Jail

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Rawalakot, July 4, 2024 (Azadi Times) — Two extremely dangerous convicts sentenced to death, who escaped from Rawalakot Jail in Azad Kashmir, (Pakistan administered Kashmir) have been recaptured.

Three days ago, a prison break saw 20 inmates fleeing the Rawalakot Jail, including over ten death row convicts. During the escape, one inmate was killed.

Among the escapees were two highly dangerous murder convicts, Usman and Faizan, who have now been captured in a challenging and perilous intelligence-based operation in the forest adjacent to Rawalakot.

A police officer, speaking on condition of anonymity, revealed that three police officers were injured during the operation. The operation was led by two young officers of the Azad Kashmir Police, ASP Mirpur Khawar Ali Shaukat and SP Bagh Khurram Iqbal.

Following the escape, 30 hours passed without any significant progress in recapturing the fugitives. This led the Inspector General of Azad Kashmir to task ASP Mirpur Khawar Ali Shaukat and SP Bagh Khurram Iqbal with the mission of re-arresting the escaped convicts. Consequently, both officers mobilized a substantial police force and initiated large-scale, intelligence-based raids at various locations.

During the night between Wednesday and Thursday, under the leadership of ASP Khawar Ali and SP Khurram Iqbal, the police team conducted an operation in the nearby forest of Rawalakot, successfully recapturing the highly dangerous convict, Usman.

During this operation, three police officers were injured but were later discharged after receiving medical attention. In a subsequent operation, the fugitive convict Faizan Aziz was also apprehended.

The police have stated that operations are ongoing to recapture the remaining fugitives and that all escapees will be brought to justice soon. The government had also announced a reward for information leading to the recapture of the escaped convicts.

Further updates will follow as the situation develops.

DC Kotli Chairs Holds Meeting to Ensure Peace and Harmony During Muharram

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    Kotli, July 3, 2024 (Azadi Times) — In an effort to maintain exemplary peace, sectarian harmony, and law and order during Muharram, a meeting was held under the chairmanship of Deputy Commissioner Kotli Azad Kashmir Choudhary Haq Nawaz.

    The session focused on delineating departmental responsibilities, establishing a code of conduct, and reviewing security measures.

    The meeting was attended by prominent figures, including SP Adeel Ahmed, Additional Deputy Commissioner Syed Naseem Abbas Shah, DHU Syed Shafqat Hussain Shah, DMS Dr. Muhammad Aslam, Tehsildar Khalid Kabir, SHO Chaudhary Muhammad Shehzad, AD Civil Defense Tazeem Akhtar Khan, SDO Electricity Majid Khan, District Traffic Inspector Zaitoon Bibi, Tehsil Mufti Habibullah Rasikh, Deputy Superintendent Public Health Farhan Karim, Area Special Branch Ghulam Rabbani, Emergency Officer Rescue 1122 Majid Malik, President Anjuman Tajran Malik Muhammad Yaqoob, President District Press Club Shahnawaz Butt, Former President District Press Club Yasir Hassan, General Secretary Jamia Ghousia Mosque Ali Ahmad Jan, Imam Bargah Qasr-e-Hussaini Muhammad Arifin Lone, Patron-in-Chief Jafaria Supreme Council Syed Fayyaz Ali Shah, Imam Bargah Qasr-e-Hussaini Syed Ali Advocate, Chairman Naveed Welfare Foundation Karamat Hussain Haidari, General Secretary Naveed Welfare Asif Ali Qadri, President Jafaria Supreme Council Dr. Husnain Bukhari, Khateeb Ghousia Mosque Bilyah Qazi Aziz Ahmed, Pahlwan Zulfiqar Janjua, Raja Gulfaraz Khan, among others.

    The assembly covered various aspects such as security, water and electricity supply, availability of ambulance services, maintaining sectarian harmony, and avoiding provocative actions. Responsibilities of various stakeholders were determined during the discussion.

    Speaking at the meeting, Deputy Commissioner Choudhary Haq Nawaz emphasized the collective role of the administration, traders, and religious scholars in ensuring peace during Muharram.

    He stressed the importance of adhering to the code of conduct and highlighted the role of scholars as ambassadors of peace, spreading harmony and love.

    The Deputy Commissioner urged all relevant departments to remain proactive in their duties, particularly in maintaining security and public order. Law enforcement agencies were instructed to act decisively without negligence.

    Special attention was given to cleaning procession routes, ensuring lighting and drainage, and the availability of health and Rescue 1122 services, especially during any untoward incidents.

    SP Adeel Ahmed warned of strict action against those uploading negative posts on social media, emphasizing vigilance against disruptive elements.

    He called for unity and cooperation among all stakeholders, stating that processions must adhere to designated routes, and ambulances would accompany the processions.

    The meeting concluded with a prayer for unity and harmony among the Muslim community.

    Contempt of Court Looms Over SP Sudhnoti and SHO Baloch in Pallandri Azad Kashmir

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    Pallandri, Azad Kashmir (Pakistan administered Kashmir) July 3, 2024 — The specter of contempt of court hangs over the heads of SP Sudhnoti and SHO Baloch following a significant order from the Pallandri Sessions Court.

    Expressing its displeasure over non-compliance with its previous orders, the court has summoned both officers to appear in person.

    On June 29, the Pallandri Sessions Court had directed the registration of an FIR against the accused Fahim Akhtar Rabbani and the involved police personnel from Char Bayar, with instructions to arrest and present them before the court.

    However, the failure to comply with this judicial directive has led to today’s legal escalation.

    Lawyers filed a contempt of court petition against the concerned officials in the Pallandri Sessions Court today, citing the non-execution of the court’s orders.

    Consequently, the court has ordered SP Sudhnoti and SHO Sudhnoti to appear tomorrow to provide an explanation.

    This development underscores the court’s firm stance on ensuring adherence to its rulings and the legal repercussions for officials who fail to comply. Further updates on this case are anticipated following tomorrow’s proceedings.

    Funding Disparity Cripples Local Governance in Pakistan-administered Kashmir

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    Muzaffarabad, Pakistan-administered Kashmir – In a stark contrast, while reports emerge of the Pakistani government allocating over 50 billion rupees to Member of National Assembly (MNA) development schemes, the elected representatives in Pakistan-administered Kashmir have been left high and dry for the past year and a half.

    The development funds crisis has triggered a continuous protest outside the Muzaffarabad Assembly House, where district councilors have been staging a sit-in demanding the release of much-needed resources.

    Zia Ur Rehman, a District Councilor, expressed his frustration, stating that the mere postponement of the assembly session will not resolve the issue. “The Prime Minister of Azad Kashmir must restore the local government system and ensure the timely disbursement of funds,” he said.

    Renowned columnist Qazi Shehzad echoed the councilors’ sentiment, arguing that those elected representatives who have not joined the protest movement have no right to hold their seats. “All the representatives participating in this struggle deserve recognition for their commitment to their constituents,” he wrote.

    The stark disparity in the allocation of development funds between mainland Pakistan and the Pakistan-administered Kashmir region has sparked outrage among the local leadership, who feel abandoned by the central government.

    As the protest continues, the demand for equitable distribution of resources and the restoration of the local governance system in Kashmir remains a pressing issue that the Pakistani authorities must address with urgency.

    Failed Attempt to Entrap JKLF’s Sardar Sagheer Khan Advoacate in Islamabad

    In a serious but failed attempt, Sardar Muhammad Sagheer Khan, the Chairman of the Jammu Kashmir Liberation Front (JKLF), was targeted in a trap approximately a year and a half ago. The incident occurred in November 2022 at Shifa International Hospital in Islamabad the capital of Pakistan. Sardar Sagheer Khan and his son, Ali Abdullah, responded immediately and strongly to the situation, later revealing the identities of those involved during a public gathering.

    The Incident

    Sardar Sagheer Khan’s wife was battling cancer and underwent surgery at Shifa International Hospital on November 25, 2022. Two days after the surgery, an unusual event took place involving Ali Abdullah, Sagheer Khan’s son. Ali received a message from an unknown person claiming to be visiting the hospital to check on his mother and asked for the ward and room number. The person also spoke to Ali on a phone call, requesting a meeting in the waiting area.

    According to Ali, two individuals, a man and a woman, met him in the waiting area and expressed their desire to visit his mother’s room. Ali did not recognize them and asked them to remain in the waiting area while he sought their introduction. They claimed to be from the army and mentioned they were visiting on the orders of their superior, Colonel Shehzad. They also expressed a wish to meet Sardar Muhammad Sagheer Khan, stating that their boss would visit in a few days.

    Ali, upon hearing their introduction, asked them to leave. However, they insisted, offering to arrange treatment for his mother abroad or at CMH for free. Ali expressed satisfaction with the treatment at Shifa International Hospital and insisted they leave immediately. At this point, one of the individuals took out an envelope, asking Ali to accept it as a gesture. Ali refused and noticed a third person attempting to take a photo. In a fit of anger, Ali tried to snatch the phone from the individual taking the photo, causing them to flee the scene.

    Response and Investigation

    Ali Abdullah informed his father and a friend about the incident and sought CCTV footage from the hospital’s security office, who asked him to return with a formal request the following day. Ali filed a request without mentioning the individuals’ introduction and submitted it to the security office. Although he was shown the footage, the security office refused to provide a copy, citing the absence of a crime.

    Two days later, Ali, accompanied by his father Sardar Sagheer Khan and lawyer Raja Mazhar Iqbal, filed a complaint at the I-9 Police Station in Islamabad. Sub-Inspector Raza assured them that the footage would be provided the next day, but later refused, stating that no crime had occurred.

    Public Reaction and Accusations

    Following his wife’s death, Sardar Sagheer Khan spoke about the incident in detail during a public gathering on February 11, 2023, commemorating the Martyrdom Day of Shaheed Kashmir. He criticized Colonel Shehzad and other responsible individuals. In a subsequent press conference during a long march for public rights, Sagheer Khan accused Brigadier Shehzad and the ISI and MI sector commanders of trying to incite violence and create turmoil.

    Following the press conference, a social media campaign was launched against Sardar Muhammad Sagheer Khan, aiming to tarnish his reputation. This attempt to discredit a sincere political leader highlighted the military establishment’s tactics in Pakistan and its administered regions to manipulate politicians.