MUZAFFARABAD: Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) Prime Minister Chaudhry Anwarul Haq on Wednesday announced a substantial allocation of Rs1 billion to enhance the professional capabilities of the region’s police, while giving them credit for maintaining peace and stability alongside the armed forces.

Addressing the passing-out parade of the 60th Recruit Course as the chief guest at the Police Lines Ground, he warned that the enemy was actively engaged in spreading discord among the youth through fifth-generation warfare.

“Our enemy is extremely cunning and deceitful, seeking to create unrest here. While the enemy cannot dare to cross the borders with malicious intent, it attempts to spread chaos through political instability… This is whatevery sensible citizen must realise and play their role in countering it,” he said.

The AJK premier stressed that the government believed in the power of reason and dialogue but warned that if anyone challenged the state’s security, they would face consequences.

He distinguished between defensive and occupying forces, affirming that while the Pakistan Armed Forces were committed to national defense, the people of AJK stood firmly with their protectors.

Stating that the police force possessed a proud past, dignified present, and promising future, he assured that the government would provide all possible resources for new recruitments, infrastructure, and modern equipment.

“I am aware that at least Rs4 billion is required for the improvement of the police force. However, in the first phase, Rs1 billion will be provided in the current fiscal year for housing facilities, training schools, arms and ammunition, transport, and equipment,” he announced.

Referring to the incidents that occurred [during the protests by the Joint Public Action Committee] in May and December last year, he commended the police for showing great restraint.

He also appreciated the immediate establishment of the Anti-Riot Force by Inspector General of Police (IGP), Rana Abdul Jabbar, calling it a commendable step.

Addressing the newly recruited personnel, he expressed the hope that they would uphold their oath throughout their service.

PM Haq saidthat his government had taken decisive action against tax evaders and mafias while strictly curbing unnecessary expenditures.

“In the past 22 months of governance, the only new vehicles purchased have been for the police department. I commend the cabinet and bureaucracy for cutting down their expenses to manage resources effectively.”

He also congratulated the Inland Revenue Department for increasing revenue and assured that all government resources and tax collections would be used for public welfare.

“As long as I hold the power of the pen with the grace of the Almighty, I will continue my mission for the welfare of the state’s people,” he vowed.

Earlier, IGP Rana Abdul Jabbar said that in view of emerging security challenges, the long-promised establishment of the Anti-Riot Force had been successfully completed.

“Today, we proudly say that these recruits, trained under the Turkish model, will not hesitate to sacrifice their lives to ensure peace for the citizens.”

He asserted that the newly trained personnel would use the state-given authority strictly within legal limits, ensuring that those attempting to spread unrest would face consequences.

He also spoke about the police force’s future goals, including the establishment of a modern Counter-Terrorism Department and training centres to equip officers with advanced investigative techniques.

Expressing gratitude to PM Haq for providing necessary resources despite financial constraints, the IGP vowed thatthe police department would spare no effort to meet public expectations.

He urged citizens to ignore those spreading chaos on social media and instead contribute positively to the state’s development.

At the end of the ceremony, the Anti-Riot Force demonstrated practical drills on modern techniques to tackle protests in various forms, earning applause from the attendees.

Earlier, the prime minister also distributed certificates of excellence and cash rewards to outstanding performers.

Published in Dawn, March 6th, 2025