Rawalakot ( Azadi Times crosspondent) The Char Bayar Festival, typically a celebration of community and entertainment in Baloch, Poonch district of Pakistani-administrred Azad Kashmir, turned into a scene of chaos and violence as political agendas took precedence over public enjoyment.
The blame for the deteriorating situation lies squarely on the shoulders of the Minister of Finance, who shamelessly manipulated the festival for political gain. What was meant to be a joyous occasion quickly devolved into a political rally, with the minister and their allies using the stage to bolster their own positions and agendas.
This blatant exploitation sparked a wave of discontent among the youth, who responded with their own chants and slogans, further inflaming tensions. Tragically, this escalation resulted in outbreaks of violence, leaving several youths injured and the atmosphere of the festival marred by fear and unrest.
In response to these developments, there are calls from both the public and the youth to boycott such politicized events and reclaim the festival as a space for genuine community enjoyment. It is imperative that authorities take swift action to prevent further incidents and ensure the safety and security of all attendees.
As the dust settles on this unfortunate episode, questions linger about the role of politics in public events and the responsibility of those in power to prioritize the well-being of their constituents over their own agendas.