Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Thursday expressed deep concern over the situation in Azad Kashmir and appealed to protesters to remain peaceful, assuring them that their grievances would be addressed. He also committed to personally overseeing the negotiation process.

In a statement, the prime minister said that peaceful protest was a constitutional and democratic right of every citizen; however, the protesters should refrain from harming public peace.

He directed law enforcement agencies to exercise restraint and patience with the protesters, show respect for public sentiments and avoid any unnecessary harshness.

Reaffirming the government’s commitment to the people of Azad Kashmir, Prime Minister Shehbaz said that their concerns would be resolved through dialogue and understanding.

Expressing deep concern over the unfortunate incidents during the protests, he ordered a transparent investigation and instructed that immediate assistance be provided to the affected families.

To further support the peace process, the prime minister announced the expansion of the negotiation committee.

The newly formed committee includes Federal Ministers Sardar Yusuf and Ahsan Iqbal, Senator Rana Sanaullah, former president of Azad Jammu and Kashmir Masood Khan, and Qamar Zaman Kaira.

He directed the committee to immediately travel to Muzaffarabad, the capital of Azad Kashmir, and work towards a prompt and lasting solution.

The prime minister stated that he would personally oversee the negotiation process upon his return to the country.

He also appealed to the members and leadership of the Action Committee to cooperate with the government’s negotiation team, which will submit its recommendations to the Prime Minister’s Office without delay for swift action.