Gilgit, GB, Pakistan administered Kashmir, June 1, 2025 —Dozens of women staged a peaceful sit-in today in the Amphary area of Gilgit, demanding the immediate release of Awami Action Committee (AAC) leaders who were arrested for raising their voices in defense of public rights in Gilgit-Baltistan.

Carrying placards and banners inscribed with slogans such as “Release Political Prisoners,” “Give Us Our Rights or Step Down,” and “Silence is Complicity — We Will Speak Out,” the protesters condemned the arrests as unjust and politically motivated.

Speaking to local media, several of the women emphasized that the AAC is neither an unconstitutional nor an illegal body, but a grassroots platform advocating for the fundamental rights of the people of Gilgit-Baltistan.

“Our leaders have been jailed simply for speaking on behalf of the public. That is not a crime — that is their duty,” one protester said. “We stand shoulder to shoulder with them. Our protest will continue until they are unconditionally released.”

The women also criticized what they termed as the government’s increasing intolerance toward peaceful activism, warning that further repression would only deepen the trust deficit between the state and the people of the region.

“Suppressing democratic voices will not silence us. The people of Gilgit-Baltistan will not back down from demanding their rights,” another participant declared.

Human rights activists and civil society organizations have echoed the call for the immediate release of the detained AAC leaders, stressing that peaceful protest is a constitutional right in any democratic society.

The government has yet to issue an official statement regarding the arrests or the growing protests.

Srinagar, Muzaffarabad: Today is June 1, 2025, and in just a few days, the people of Kashmir will celebrate Eid al-Adha. Both administrations—Azad Jammu & Kashmir (AJK) and Indian-administered Jammu & Kashmir (J\&K)—have issued official notifications outlining their respective holiday schedules.

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This news is significant not only for Kashmir but also for readers in Pakistan and India, since the region is split between the two countries and their administrations.

Holidays in Azad Jammu & Kashmir (AJK)

• The Government of Pakistan has released its 2025 public holiday calendar, confirming a four-day holiday for Eid al-Adha on June 7, 8, 9, and 10.
• The notification specifies that a final announcement concerning the sighting of the moon—and thus the exact holiday dates—will be issued separately.
• Additionally, many government offices and educational institutions will remain closed on June 10 (10 Dhu al-Hijjah) in observance of the Eid celebration.

Residents have welcomed this three-day break. Schools and colleges have already begun their vacation preparations, while local business associations are considering their own shutdowns during the holiday.

Holidays in Indian-Administered Jammu & Kashmir (J&K)

• The J\&K government issued its 2025 holiday schedule, declaring June 7 and 8 as official holidays for Eid al-Adha.
• Since June 8 falls on a Sunday, it doubles as both the weekly holiday and the first day of the Eid holiday.
• The calendar also includes regional observances—such as “Kashmir Martyrs’ Day” and “Milad un-Nabi”—although these do not directly pertain to the Eid festivities.
• Government offices and educational institutions across the Jammu division will be closed on these two days.

While the J\&K Employees’ Union has expressed satisfaction with the two-day holiday, some groups are demanding a third day off. They argue that several Indian states grant three days off for Eid, so J\&K should do the same.

The Context of a Divided Kashmir and Public Sentiment

Kashmir remains a disputed state.

• Azad Jammu & Kashmir, under Pakistani administration, has declared three days of Eid al-Adha holidays.
• Indian-administered Jammu & Kashmir has set aside two days for the festival, aligning with India’s standard practice of combining Sunday with a designated holiday.

This division adds sensitivity to the holiday announcement. Residents in AJK appreciate the extra day off, while those in Indian-administered Kashmir, though generally satisfied, continue to lobby for a third day.

Preparations and Marketplace Activity

As Eid draws near, markets, butcher shops, and bazaars in Kashmir have become bustling hubs:

• Butchers have begun taking orders for sacrificial animals—cows, buffaloes, and goats—at prices ranging from PKR 150,000 to PKR 250,000.
• Restaurants and hotels have launched special Eid al-Adha menus, while many families are arranging on-site slaughtering services.
• Clothing retailers report increased foot traffic, especially for traditional attire and footwear for elders and children.

Citizens’ Expectations and Demands

• Government employee unions demand that J&K also extend the Eid holiday to three days, ensuring parity with other Indian states and AJK.
• Traders’ associations have suggested that if a longer holiday is granted, markets should adjust operating hours before and after Eid to prevent business losses.
• Student organizations and teachers’ unions recommend adjusting exam schedules so that students receive adequate rest and preparation time following the Eid break.

Moon-Sighting Process

• The definitive date for Eid al-Adha hinges on the sighting of the Dhu al-Hijjah crescent moon.
• In Saudi Arabia, the moon was observed on May 27, setting Eid al-Adha 2025 on June 6 there. In India local observations confirmed Eid on June 7.
• In Pakistan, the Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee is scheduled to convene on May 27. If the moon is sighted that night, Dhu al-Hijjah will commence on May 28, placing Eid on June 7.

Security and Administrative Measures

Both administrations have put security protocols in place for the Eid period:

• Police and security forces will be deployed on roads and highways to ensure the smooth transport of sacrificial animals and to manage pedestrian traffic around markets.
• Local authorities plan to designate specific zones for butcher stalls, minimizing road congestion and maintaining public order.
• The health department has instructed hospitals and clinics to keep emergency wards operational and to station additional staff in case of any medical incidents.

For Eid al-Adha 2025, Azad Jammu & Kashmir will observe public holidays on June 7, 8, and 9, while Indian-administered Jammu & Kashmir will remain closed on June 7 and 8. Given Kashmir’s divided status, the disparity in holiday length has stirred public debate, though most residents on both sides look forward to celebrating the festival with family and community.

Muzaffarabad, Azad Jammu & Kashmir (Pakistan administered Kashmir) – In a significant development for the region’s water infrastructure, a new water treatment plant was inaugurated today in Makri on the Neelum River, promising to provide 10 million liters of clean drinking water daily to Muzaffarabad’s residents.

Key Features of the Project

• Capacity: 10 million liters per day (MLD)
• Beneficiaries: Over 400,000 residents of Muzaffarabad
• Source: Neelum River (ensuring sustainable supply)
• Technology: Advanced filtration and purification systems

Officials Hail Project as a Lifeline for Muzaffarabad

The plant is expected to alleviate chronic water shortages in the capital, where supply disruptions and contamination issues have long plagued residents.

Speaking at the inauguration, AJK Prime Minister Chaudhry Anwar-ul-Haq emphasized the government’s commitment to improving public utilities, stating:
“This plant is a crucial step toward ensuring clean and reliable water for Muzaffarabad. We will continue investing in infrastructure to meet the growing needs of our people.”

Public Response & Future Plans

Local residents have welcomed the initiative, expressing hope for consistent access to safe drinking water. However, some community leaders urge authorities to expand such projects to rural areas where water scarcity remains acute.

The AJK government has hinted at additional water supply schemes in the pipeline, aiming to achieve universal clean water access across the region.

Note: This report is based on official statements and project details. Further updates will follow as the plant becomes fully operational.

Muzaffarabad, Azad Jammu & Kashmir (Pakistan administered Kashmir) – A damning report tabled in the AJK Legislative Assembly has accused the government of Prime Minister Chaudhry Anwar-ul-Haq of financial mismanagement, irregularities, and potential corruption amounting to Rs. 40.13 billion, according to local media investigations.

The Auditor General of Pakistan’s (AGP) report, submitted to the assembly, highlights 234 financial objections, including 16 major cases where expenditures were made without proper documentation, raising serious concerns about transparency.

Key Findings of the Audit Report

• 48 objections related to failure in meeting revenue targets.
• 46 objections regarding excessive payments beyond approved rates.
• Lack of supporting records for significant government expenditures.

The revelations directly contradict Prime Minister Anwar-ul-Haq’s repeated claims of running an “extremely transparent administration.” He has previously challenged critics, offering a Rs. 100,000 reward to anyone who could prove a single case of corruption under his government.

Government’s Silence Raises Eyebrows

Despite the explosive allegations, the AJK government has yet to issue an official response. ITC News reached out to Finance Minister Abdul Majid Khan and the AJK Information Department, but no statement has been released so far.

A Test for Accountability in AJK

The report has intensified scrutiny over governance in AJK, where financial transparency remains a contentious issue. Opposition leaders and civil society groups are demanding:

• An independent probe into the audit objections.
• Public disclosure of all financial records.
• Legal action if embezzlement or misappropriation is proven.

International Observers Call for Transparency

Given AJK’s sensitive political status, international watchdogs emphasize the need for accountability to maintain public trust. The allegations could further strain the region’s administrative credibility if not addressed transparently.

As pressure mounts, the AJK government must either refute the audit findings with evidence or take corrective measures to restore confidence in its financial governance.

The Azadi Times will continue monitoring developments and update as official responses emerge.

Note: This report is based on local media claims and the Auditor General’s findings. The AJK government’s official stance is awaited.

Muzaffarabad, AJK (Pakistan administered Kashmir) – The Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) government has announced the cancellation of weekly holidays (Saturday and Sunday) for several key departments involved in budget preparation.

According to an official notification, the decision affects the Accountant General’s Office, Finance Department, Planning and Development Department, and all other relevant developmental departments.

The move comes as the AJK government accelerates efforts to finalize the upcoming budget. Officials have been directed to remain on duty to ensure timely completion of budgetary documents and related processes.

A notification issued by the government stated that the cancellation of holidays is temporary and will remain in effect until further orders. The step aims to streamline coordination among departments and meet the budget preparation deadlines.

Sources within the Finance Department revealed that the government is focusing on prioritizing development projects and addressing financial challenges in the region. The extended working days are expected to facilitate smoother deliberations and finalization of budgetary allocations.

Employees of the concerned departments have been instructed to comply with the orders, though some have expressed concerns over continuous work without breaks. However, authorities have assured that necessary measures will be taken to manage workloads efficiently.

Further updates regarding the budget and related policies are expected in the coming days. The AJK government has emphasized its commitment to presenting a balanced and progressive budget for the fiscal year.