Government and Civil Society Talks Resume in PoJK Amidst Tensions

After deadly unrest in Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir, talks between a government delegation and a civil society alliance resumed in a tense atmosphere. The negotiations follow strikes and a communications blackout, with both parties seeking solutions to ongoing political and human rights issues in the troubled region.

A high-level government delegation has resumed negotiations with a civil society alliance in Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK) following deadly unrest that saw at least 10 people killed. This comes after violent clashes between protesters and Pakistani forces, with many others critically injured as reported by Dawn.

Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif dispatched an eight-member committee, including federal ministers and PoJK's Prime Minister Chaudhry Anwarul Haq, to Muzaffarabad aimed at addressing ongoing political and human rights issues. Talks, conducted with representatives from the Jammu Kashmir Joint Awami Action Committee (JKJAAC), continued late into the night with plans to recommence Friday morning.

The region has faced a complete shutdown and communications blackout for four consecutive days during this unrest. PM Sharif expressed deep concern over the situation, ordering a transparent investigation into the events and reiterating the need for a peaceful resolution. Meanwhile, security forces remain deployed across PoJK to manage escalating demonstrations.