MUZAFFARABAD (Agencies): Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) Prime Minister Chaudhry Anwar-ul-Haq has announced a comprehensive security and governance reform package, including the formal cabinet approval for the induction of Rangers in AJK and the imminent launch of a Counterterrorism Department (CTD).
In an exclusive interview with APP, the AJK premier confirmed that 1,000 Rangers personnel and 300 officers will be recruited under existing rules and regulations, with the command structure firmly under the control of Azad Kashmir officials. “No non-state individuals will be inducted,” he emphasized, dispelling speculation regarding external influence.
He condemned “toxic and baseless propaganda” targeting state institutions, vowing accountability for those spreading misinformation. “Such narratives are deeply regrettable and will be legally challenged,” he said.
Highlighting the launch of the CTD, Anwar-ul-Haq underscored its importance in protecting citizens from emerging terror threats. “In the face of modern security challenges, this is a necessary step, especially when considering the sacrifices made by Pakistan’s armed forces,” he remarked.
Despite a budget deficit of Rs. 71 billion, the prime minister said the government had delivered key services, including salaries before Eid, funding for local bodies, and the revival of stalled projects. He also announced the upcoming ‘Out-of-School Children’ initiative, and Rs. 3 billion Danish Schools project approved by the federal government, along with the launch of Shounter Tunnel in Muzaffarabad.
In the financial sector, he stated that AJK Bank will become a scheduled bank by June 30, as all necessary preparations and digitalization have been completed. Only final steps remain with the bank administration.
Anwar-ul-Haq noted that talks with local government representatives have concluded successfully, reaffirming their constitutional role in governance. He said the issue of development funds for MLAs will be resolved either through court intervention or legislation.
On recruitment policies, he dismissed claims of political favoritism. “All hiring has been on merit. Only in rare medical emergencies in remote regions was the ‘state subject’ requirement relaxed. For security forces like the Rangers and Police, only local residents are eligible,” he clarified.
The PM also issued a strong warning about India’s alleged role in fomenting terrorism, accusing RAW and hostile agents of attempting to destabilize the region. “This is part of a broader campaign to target Pakistan, and the threat must be addressed urgently,” he stressed.
He also defended the contributions of the Pakistan Army, especially in defending the Line of Control (LoC) and supporting disaster response. “For 77 years, our armed forces have stood with us. Maligning them is both unjust and dangerous,” he said.
Concluding the interview, PM Anwar-ul-Haq stated, “There is no politics without the state. If we forget the sacrifices of our martyrs, it is our future generations who will suffer.”