MUZAFFARABAD: Amid plans to expand its network to the grassroots level, a civil society coalition leading the rights movement in Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) has warned authorities to fulfil their promises within the next six months, or face the consequences.

The warning was issued during a late Monday meeting of the Jammu Kashmir Joint Action Committee’s (JKJAAC) core committee in the town of Chakswari in Mirpur district, where several other key decisions were also made.

“The JKJAAC… congratulates people of the state who played an unforgettable role in the recent movement, particularly during the long march on May 11 and the lockdown and entry point closure on Dec 5, leading to significant successes,” it said.

It reminded the government that after negotiations with an official team on Dec 8, it had given a six-month timeline for the full implementation of the approved Charter of Demands in compliance with the Feb 4 notification and a written agreement.

“During this six-month period, sub-committees of the JKJAAC will be formed at the union council and ward levels in consultation with the core committee members from the concerned districts to enhance public mobilisation and organisation.”

The meeting announced strict adherence to its code of conduct, barring members from participating in programmes organised by other groups or organisations as JKJAAC representatives, without prior approval.

Expressing serious concern over the delay in construction of the Rathoa-Haryam Bridge, the non-implementation of reduced property transfer tax rates, frequent power outages and low voltage issues and the alleged failure to improve the supply and quality of wheat flour, the meeting warned the government to deliver on its promises or else the rulers would bear full responsibility for the consequences.

Acknowledging the trust and support of the region’s residents and overseas Kashmiris, the JKJAAC assured them that future decisions would reflect their aspirations and would be implemented with their backing.

Published in Dawn, December 25th, 2024