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Pakistan PM Shehbaz Sharif Calls High-Level Meeting on Developments in Azad Kashmir

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Pakistan PM Shehbaz Sharif Calls High-Level Meeting on Developments in Azad Kashmir

Senior officials expected to review recent developments amid growing public and political attention

ISLAMABAD — Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has convened a high-level meeting to discuss the evolving situation in Azad Kashmir, according to official sources familiar with the matter.

The meeting is expected to bring together senior government officials and relevant authorities to assess recent developments in the region and consider potential administrative and policy responses. While the government has not yet released a detailed agenda, the consultations come at a time when developments in Azad Kashmir are drawing increased public and political attention.

Sources indicate that discussions may focus on maintaining public order, addressing emerging challenges, and evaluating measures aimed at ensuring stability in the region. Officials are also expected to review reports received from local authorities and other relevant institutions.

The meeting underscores the significance being attached to recent events in Azad Kashmir, a region that has witnessed heightened political activity and public engagement in recent weeks. Analysts suggest that any decisions emerging from the consultations could have implications for governance and the government’s approach toward addressing concerns raised by residents.

As of publication, no official statement had been issued regarding the outcomes of the meeting. Further details are expected following the conclusion of the discussions.

Azadi Times will continue to monitor developments and provide updates as additional information becomes available.

Rawalakot Protests: Internet Blackout Obscures Reports as Kashmir Shutdown Looms

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Rawalakot Protests: Internet Blackout Obscures Reports as Kashmir Shutdown Looms

MUZAFFARABAD / RAWALAKOT, Pakistan-administered Kashmir (June 8) — A communications blackout and widespread internet disruptions have made it difficult to independently verify a series of claims emerging from Rawalakot, where tensions have escalated ahead of a region-wide shutdown call issued for June 9.

According to local sources, journalists, and social media reports from Rawalakot in Poonch Division, protests intensified following the killing of Shahzaib Habib, a local activist and close associate of Jammu Kashmir Joint Awami Action Committee (JKJAAC) core member Sardar Umar Nazir Kashmiri.

Local accounts claim that Shahzaib Habib was attacked shortly after midnight on June 6 when unidentified individuals allegedly rammed his vehicle before opening fire. The circumstances surrounding the incident remain unclear, and authorities have not publicly released a detailed account of the case at the time of publication.

The killing sparked protests in Rawalakot days before the June 9 shutdown call, which had originally been announced across various parts of Pakistan-administered Kashmir.

Unverified Casualty Claims Circulate Online

As internet and mobile data services remain severely restricted in parts of the region, numerous unverified claims have circulated on social media regarding casualties in Rawalakot.

Some local accounts and online activists have alleged that hundreds of people may have been killed or injured during clashes. Figures circulating online vary significantly, with some posts claiming that more than 600 members or supporters of the Jammu Kashmir Joint Awami Action Committee were killed.

The Azadi Times has not independently verified these claims.

Due to communication disruptions, restricted access to affected areas, and the absence of verifiable official records, the reported casualty figures cannot currently be confirmed. Independent journalists and local correspondents continue to gather information from multiple sources.

Reports of Damage to JKJAAC Office

Meanwhile, reports from Muzaffarabad indicate that the office of the Jammu Kashmir Joint Awami Action Committee was allegedly raided, damaged, and subsequently sealed.

Images and videos shared online appear to show damage to the premises; however, the full circumstances surrounding the incident remain unclear.

Additional security personnel have reportedly been deployed at major intersections and public squares in Muzaffarabad, although no confirmed reports of fatalities have emerged from the capital.

Shutdown Expected Across Multiple Regions

Shutdowns are expected across Muzaffarabad, Kotli, Mirpur, and other areas on June 9 following calls by political and civil society groups.

Among those publicly supporting the shutdown call is Shaukat Nawaz Mir, who has urged residents to participate in what organizers describe as a protest for civil and political rights.

Businesses, transport services, and educational institutions are expected to remain affected if the shutdown proceeds as planned.

Verification Challenges

The ongoing disruption of internet and mobile data services has created significant challenges for journalists, emergency responders, businesses, and residents attempting to access information.

The Azadi Times is continuing to monitor developments through local correspondents, civil society contacts, eyewitness accounts, and available documentation.

This is a developing story and will be updated as additional information becomes available and independently verified.

Rawalakot: Funeral Prayers Offered for Shaheed Shahzaib Habib Amid Large Public Gathering

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Rawalakot: Funeral Prayers Offered for Shaheed Shahzaib Habib Amid Large Public Gathering

Thousands Attend Funeral in a Show of Solidarity as Calls for Transparency Continue

RAWALAKOT, Azad Kashmir (The Azadi Times) — Funeral prayers for Shaheed Shahzaib Habib were offered in Rawalakot on Sunday, drawing a large gathering of mourners from across the region.

According to local sources, thousands of people, including community members, youth activists, social workers, and residents from different parts of Azad Kashmir, attended the funeral to pay their final respects. The atmosphere remained solemn as participants expressed grief over the loss and solidarity with the bereaved family.

Following the funeral prayers, Shahzaib Habib was laid to rest in his native area. Attendees described the gathering as a reflection of public concern and unity, with many emphasizing the importance of accountability and transparency regarding the circumstances surrounding his death.

Community members and civil society representatives present at the funeral reiterated calls for an impartial and transparent investigation. They stressed that all facts related to the incident should be established through an independent process and made available to the public.

The Azadi Times will continue to follow developments and update this story as further verified information and official statements become available.

Reporting Note: Information in this report is based on accounts from local sources and attendees. Further details will be added as they are independently verified

Heavy Shelling Reported on Protesters in Rawalakot

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Heavy Shelling Reported on Protesters in Rawalakot

Heavy Shelling Reported on Protesters in Rawalakot

Rawalakot: According to local sources, police and Rangers carried out intense tear gas shelling on protesters during a demonstration in Rawalakot, resulting in reports of multiple individuals being affected. Tensions remain high in the area as the situation continues to develop.

Eyewitnesses stated that protesters were gathered to voice their demands when clashes and heightened tensions emerged between demonstrators and security personnel. Authorities reportedly used tear gas to disperse the crowd, causing breathing difficulties and distress among participants.

Local reports indicate that a large number of protesters dispersed following the shelling, although demonstrations have not completely ceased. Several community and political figures have criticized the use of force, arguing that it undermines citizens’ right to peaceful protest.

As of the time of reporting, no official statement has been issued by the relevant authorities regarding the incident. Residents and political observers continue to closely monitor developments in the region.

Azadi Times is following the situation and will provide updates as more information becomes available.

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Intense tear gas shelling by police and Rangers reported during protests in Rawalakot, with multiple people affected and tensions remaining high.

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Rawalakot, Azad Kashmir, Protest, Police, Rangers, Tear Gas Shelling, Human Rights, Azadi Times

All Parties Conference in Muzaffarabad: Resolution Passes on Timely Elections, Defers Constitutional Reforms on Refugee Seats to Assembly

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All Parties Conference in Muzaffarabad: Resolution Passes on Timely Elections, Defers Constitutional Reforms on Refugee Seats to Assembly

Muzaffarabad, Pakistan-administered Kashmir – In a significant political development, an All Parties Conference (APC) convened in the capital has unanimously passed a resolution reaffirming the right to self-determination for the people of Kashmir, while mandating that general elections be held on time and leaving the complex issue of constitutional amendments regarding refugee seats to the legislative assembly.

Chaired by Prime Minister Faisal Mumtaz Rathore at the Prime Minister’s House, the conference saw the attendance of top political and religious leadership, including four former prime ministers and the Leader of the Opposition. A joint declaration issued after the meeting outlined a broad consensus on domestic political stability and the Kashmir dispute.

According to the official communiqué, participants reiterated their full support for the Kashmiri people’s right to self-determination in accordance with United Nations Security Council resolutions. The leaders described the ongoing democratic and constitutional process in Pakistan-administered Kashmir as the foundation of the region’s stability, pledging to further strengthen democratic institutions.

Key Resolutions: Elections and Institutional Supremacy

The resolution enshrined a firm commitment to holding the next general elections for the Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) Legislative Assembly strictly within the constitutionally mandated timeframe. The leadership vowed to take all necessary measures to ensure that the polls are conducted in a “free, fair, transparent, and peaceful” manner. The declaration further stated that any attempt to interfere in the electoral process would be legally countered.

The 12 Refugee Seats: Assembly to Decide
Addressing the historically contentious issue of the 12 seats reserved for Kashmiri refugees settled in Pakistan, the conference acknowledged this representation as both a “historic and constitutional reality.” However, recognizing the legal complexities surrounding the current electoral system for these seats, the APC refrained from making an executive decision.

The declaration firmly stated that the power to enact constitutional amendments lies exclusively with the elected representatives in the Legislative Assembly. The gathering recommended that before any potential constitutional changes are initiated, a broad-based consultative process be launched, involving political parties, bar associations, civil society, and constitutional experts.

The communiqué also emphasized that promoting tolerance, dialogue, and peaceful political struggle is essential for sustainable peace in the region.

It is pertinent to note that while major stakeholders participated, the Jammu and Kashmir Joint Awami Action Committee (JKJAAC) declined to attend the All Parties Conference.

Deadlock Persists: JKJAAC Announces Wheel Jam and Shutter Down Strike on June 9 as Talks with Government Fail

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Deadlock Persists: JKJAAC Announces Wheel Jam and Shutter Down Strike on June 9 as Talks with Government Fail

Muzaffarabad, Pakistan Administered Kashmir — Negotiations between the Jammu Kashmir Joint Awami Action Committee (JKJAAC) and a high-powered Pakistani government committee ended in stalemate late Saturday, with the protest group reaffirming its call for a statewide wheel jam and shutter down strike on June 9, alongside a long march.

The marathon talks, held at a private hotel in Muzaffarabad, stretched late into the night but failed to produce a breakthrough on the contentious issue of twelve reserved seats for Kashmiri refugees in the Legislative Assembly — a demand that has emerged as the focal point of the ongoing political standoff.

Talks Collapse, Protest Call Stands

In a brief statement issued after the negotiations concluded, JKJAAC core member Shoukat Nawaz Mir declared the talks a failure.

“The negotiations between the high-powered committee and the Awami Action Committee have failed. Consequently, a long march will be held on June 9,” Mir announced. He appealed to the people across the territory to prepare for the long march, while adding that “all sincere efforts from the Pakistani government will be welcomed.”

Despite requests from representatives of both the Pakistani government and Pakistan Administered Kashmir government to postpone the June 9 protest, the JKJAAC decided to maintain its agitation schedule. The committee urged the public to intensify preparations for the long march.

Government: Talks Not Over, Next Round Expected

Contradicting the JKJAAC’s characterization, Pakistani government representative and Advisor to the Prime Minister Rana Sanaullah insisted that the negotiations were not concluded.

“Talks have not ended. We will meet again next week,” Sanaullah told the media. He revealed that both sides had exchanged proposals during the session, and that the Pakistan Administered Kashmir government would convene an All Parties Conference (APC) to build consensus among all stakeholders.

According to Sanaullah, the next meeting is expected to take place by June 6 or 7. He also clarified that elections in Pakistan Administered Kashmir would proceed as constitutionally scheduled, with efforts underway to resolve outstanding issues before the election timetable is announced.

On the refugee seats controversy, Sanaullah remained non-committal, stating that “a decision on this matter will be made at the All Parties Conference. At this stage, I cannot say anything definitive from my side.”

The Refugee Seats Dispute: Constitutional Amendment Required

The most divisive issue on the table remains the future of twelve seats in the Legislative Assembly reserved for Kashmiri refugees residing in various parts of Pakistan. The JKJAAC has demanded their abolition, arguing that the arrangement undermines local representation.

Pakistani Minister for Kashmir Affairs Amir Muqam has maintained that immediate action is impossible, as any change requires a constitutional amendment in the Pakistan Administered Kashmir Assembly — a process demanding a two-thirds majority, or support from at least 35 members.

“No bill has been presented in the Assembly on this matter so far, indicating that the legal process has not even reached its initial stages,” Muqam noted.

However, JKJAAC leader Shoukat Nawaz Mir has claimed that the required political support for the amendment already exists. He argued that even if refugee seat representatives do not vote in favor, the necessary majority can still be secured. Citing a precedent, he pointed to a previous Prime Ministerial election where 48 members cast their votes, suggesting that broad political backing can be mobilized on critical occasions.

Political observers interpret this assertion as an indication that the JKJAAC may have received behind-the-scenes assurances that progress on the issue is achievable.

Background: The October 4, 2025 Agreement

The current deadlock centers on the implementation of an agreement reached on October 4, 2025, which the JKJAAC claims has been met with governmental delays and obstructions. Saturday’s talks reportedly saw discussions on various proposals related to this agreement, though no consensus emerged.

Election Context Adds Urgency

The negotiations are taking place against the backdrop of anticipated general elections in Pakistan Administered Kashmir, widely expected to be held in July 2026, though the Election Commission has yet to announce an official schedule.

The Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) has already announced its candidates, accelerating political activity across the territory. The JKJAAC has set a deadline of May 31 for the acceptance of its demands, warning of further measures if its calls go unheeded.

What’s Next

With the JKJAAC maintaining its June 9 protest call and the Pakistani government planning an APC and follow-up talks within the first week of June, the coming days will be critical in determining whether a negotiated settlement can be reached — or whether the territory heads toward heightened political confrontation on the streets of Muzaffarabad and beyond.

Eid-ul-Adha 2026: Prayer Announced at Historic Eidgah Srinagar, Mirwaiz Reviews Arrangements

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Eid-ul-Adha 2026: Prayer Announced at Historic Eidgah Srinagar, Mirwaiz Reviews Arrangements

SRINAGAR, INDIAN ADMINISTERED KASHMIR — The management of Anjuman Auqaf Jama Masjid Srinagar has officially announced that the Eid-ul-Adha (Feast of Sacrifice) prayers will be offered at the historic Eidgah Srinagar on Wednesday, May 27, 2026, at 9:30 AM sharp, subject to weather conditions.

The decision was made during a meeting of the Executive Body chaired by the President of Anjuman Auqaf and Mirwaiz of Kashmir, Dr. Moulvi Muhammad Umar Farooq, at the Central Office of Jama Masjid Srinagar today. With millions of people expected to search for the final schedule, the Anjuman has urged civil authorities to ensure a hassle-free congregation.

Arrangements Reviewed by Mirwaiz on Ground

Ahead of the mass gathering, Mirwaiz Umar Farooq personally visited the Eidgah ground to inspect the facilities and on-ground realities. He expressed satisfaction with the condition of the field, noting that the construction of the new Mihrab (Prayer Niche) and Minbar (Pulpit) has been completed successfully.

“The ground is in excellent shape. If the weather remains favorable, the Eid prayer can be performed smoothly in the open field, following the Sunnah of the Prophet (PBUH),” the Mirwaiz observed during his inspection.

Event Schedule for May 27

The Anjuman has also released a pre-prayer schedule for the benefit of devotees:

· 8:30 AM (IST): Special Sermon by Mirwaiz Umar Farooq on the philosophy of sacrifice, highlighting the spirit of obedience to Allah, compassion, and the essence of Qurbani.
· 9:30 AM (IST): Eid-ul-Adha congregational prayers.

“Hope Administration Won’t Create Hurdles”

In a strongly worded yet hopeful message, the Auqaf management expressed optimism that the local administration will not impose last-minute restrictions at the Eidgah. The body lamented a recurring trend where worshippers are kept in suspense until the final moments, only for authorities to deny permission for prayers at both the Eidgah and the historic Jama Masjid.

The Anjuman stated, “There is no justification for imposing restrictions or bans. The field is ready, the Mihrab is complete, and the community wishes to pray in peace. Hurting the religious sentiments of the masses through late-night disruptions is a violation of religious freedom.”

Contingency Plan for Bad Weather

The Anjuman clarified a backup plan for inclement weather. Should it rain, the Eid prayers will be shifted to the Historic Jama Masjid Srinagar, maintaining the same 9:30 AM timing and organizational structure.

 

AJK Government Notifies Three-Day Public Holiday for Eid-ul-Adha 2026

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AJK Government Notifies Three-Day Public Holiday for Eid-ul-Adha 2026

MUZAFFARABAD, Azad Jammu and Kashmir — The Government of Azad Jammu and Kashmir has officially announced public holidays for Eid-ul-Adha 2026, issuing a formal notification for a three-day break across the state.

According to the official notification released by the administration, citizens of Azad Jammu and Kashmir will observe public holidays starting from May 26, 2026 . The holidays will run for three consecutive days, covering May 26, 27, and 28 .

During this period, all government and private schools, colleges, and offices will remain completely closed. The announcement aims to allow citizens to fully observe the religious festival of sacrifice with their families.

In a related development, the Mirpur administration has also issued a separate notification fixing the wages of butchers for Eid-ul-Adha, a move intended to protect citizens from overcharging during the busy sacrificial season.

The notification has been circulated to all relevant departments across the ten districts of Azad Jammu and Kashmir to ensure uniform compliance.

Eid-ul-Adha, one of the two major Islamic festivals, commemorates the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim to sacrifice his son as an act of obedience to God. The festival is marked by congregational prayers, the sacrifice of animals, and the distribution of meat among family, neighbours, and the less fortunate.

For official reference, citizens are advised to consult the formal notification issued by the Services and General Administration Department (S&GAD) of Azad Jammu and Kashmir.

Eid Eve Horror in Muzaffarabad: Driver Drives Coaster into Jhelum River After Alleged Assault by Traffic Police; Protests Erupt

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Eid Eve Horror in Muzaffarabad: Driver Drives Coaster into Jhelum River After Alleged Assault by Traffic Police; Protests Erupt

MUZAFFARABAD, Pakistan administered Kashmir — On the eve of Eid-ul-Fitr, a public transport driver in Muzaffarabad, the capital of Pakistan-administered Kashmir, drove his passenger coaster into the Jhelum River in an apparent act of desperation after an altercation with traffic police—an incident that has sparked angry protests across the city.

What Happened

The coaster, operating on the Rawalpindi-Muzaffarabad route, was stopped at Chhattar Chowk by Muzaffarabad Traffic Police over a route permit violation. Officials demanded documents and imposed a PKR 5,000 fine.

According to eyewitness accounts and preliminary reports, the driver pleaded emotionally with the officers, saying he now faced a choice between paying the penalty or buying Eid gifts for his children. A verbal argument ensued. Police confiscated the vehicle’s documents but allowed the driver to first drop his passengers at the main bus terminal, on the condition that he return immediately.

Upon his return to Chhattar Chowk, the situation escalated. Police ordered an official to escort the coaster to the police station. It is alleged that during this process, the traffic official slapped and physically mistreated the driver.

The Plunge

In a moment of extreme emotional distress, the driver sped the vehicle toward the riverbank, directly in front of the Supreme Court VIP gate, and drove it into the Jhelum River. The traffic police official inside the vehicle narrowly escaped by jumping out moments before impact. The driver also leaped from the vehicle but sustained injuries.

Rescue 1122 Muzaffarabad teams responded quickly, pulling the injured driver from the river and transferring him to the Combined Military Hospital (CMH) Muzaffarabad for medical treatment.

Public Outrage and Protests

News of the incident spread rapidly, triggering strong public condemnation. Large crowds gathered at Chhattar Chowk and surrounding areas, protesting what they describe as routine harassment and heavy-handed tactics by traffic police. The protests continued late into the night, with demonstrators demanding accountability and a formal inquiry into the conduct of the officials involved.

Context for Readers

Muzaffarabad serves as the capital of Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK), the territory administered by Pakistan, and sits at the confluence of the Neelum and Jhelum rivers. The region, claimed by both Pakistan and India, has been at the centre of the decades-old Kashmir conflict. While politically sensitive, cities like Muzaffarabad also experience the everyday governance and policing challenges seen across South Asia—where power imbalances between state officials and working-class citizens often lead to tragic outcomes.

What Comes Next

No official statement has yet been issued by the Muzaffarabad Traffic Police or the AJK administration. However, public pressure is mounting for a transparent investigation into both the route permit dispute and the alleged physical assault that preceded the driver’s desperate act.

This is a developing story. Updates will follow as more information becomes available.

Prince Rahim Aga Khan Concludes Historic Three-Day Visit to Gilgit-Baltistan and Chitral

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Prince Rahim Aga Khan Concludes Historic Three-Day Visit to Gilgit-Baltistan and Chitral

GILGIT, Pakistan-Administered Kashmir – Prince Rahim Al-Hussaini Aga Khan, the spiritual leader of the Ismaili community, departed from Gilgit today after completing a historic three-day visit to Gilgit-Baltistan (Pakistan-administered Kashmir) and Chitral.

During the visit, Prince Rahim attended various religious and social gatherings in Hunza, Gojal, Gahkuch, Ghizer, Gilgit, and Chitral. Millions of devoted followers gathered to catch a glimpse of their spiritual leader, an event they consider a great blessing.

The visit was marked by an extraordinary atmosphere of joy, devotion, and religious unity across Gilgit-Baltistan. Large crowds turned out to welcome their spiritual guide, reflecting the deep bond between the community and its leadership.

At the conclusion of the visit, a formal farewell ceremony was held at the helipad in Gilgit. The Acting Chief Minister and Governor of Gilgit-Baltistan, along with senior civil and military officials, were present to see him off.

Before his departure, Prince Rahim Aga Khan thanked the civil and military institutions for their assistance. He praised the security arrangements and other logistical measures taken during the tour, expressing his gratitude to all those who contributed to the smooth conduct of the visit.

The visit is being seen as historically significant for the Ismaili community in the strategically located region of Gilgit-Baltistan, which has been under Pakistani administration since 1947.

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