MUZAFFARABAD: A major development has emerged in Azad Jammu and Kashmir following an explosive report aired by ABN News, sending shockwaves through political and administrative circles. Sources say AJK Prime Minister Faisal Mumtaz Rathore took immediate notice of allegations surrounding the facilitation of illegal cigarette factories in Mirpur and ordered swift action.
According to well-placed sources, the controversial posting of Chaudhry Azhar as Deputy Commissioner Inland Revenue for Mirpur Circle has been halted. It is being reported that after being promoted from Assistant Commissioner to Deputy Commissioner, Chaudhry Azhar was allegedly using political influence and powerful connections to secure the high-profile posting. However, after the issue surfaced publicly, the situation reportedly took a dramatic turn.
Sources claim serious concerns had already been raised in influential quarters over attempts to reactivate illegal cigarette manufacturing units operating in Mirpur. Allegations suggest that Chaudhry Azhar was allegedly acting as a facilitator for elements seeking to revive the illicit cigarette business network.
After highlighting by ABN News, the matter reached the highest levels in Muzaffarabad. Sources say Prime Minister Faisal Mumtaz Rathore personally sought details from relevant authorities and conducted a detailed review of the disputed appointment. The Prime Minister is reportedly treating the issue with utmost seriousness and has made it clear that controversial postings in sensitive sectors would not be entertained. He is also determined to execute zero tolerance policy with full spirts regarding illegal cigarette production units in AJK.
Authorities are also reportedly examining which organized networks and influential figures may be operating behind the scenes of the illegal cigarette sector. Coordination among multiple institutions is underway, and further tough administrative actions are expected in the coming days.
Adding another layer of controversy, sources indicate that recently, the name of Finance and Inland Revenue Minister Qasim Majeed had also allegedly surfaced in discussions regarding the alleged reactivation of illegal cigarette units.
Previously, during the tenure of former Prime Minister Chaudhry Anwar-ul-Haq, a historic crackdown against illegal cigarette factories was launched. The operation was widely praised across Azad Kashmir and Pakistan at top most levels for dismantling major illicit manufacturing networks.
After assuming office, Prime Minister Faisal Mumtaz Rathore had continued a declared zero-tolerance policy against illegal cigarette factories, strictly directing relevant authorities not to compromise under any circumstances.
However, as elections draw closer, reports have once again begun surfacing regarding the alleged reactivation of illegal cigarette units in Mirpur and Bhimber. Just weeks ago, after the PM Faisal Mumtaz Rathore expressed his displeasure and took notice of the news of reopening of few units, inland revenue authorities moved within hours and conducted an operation against a cigarette unit allegedly operating under the cover of a dairy farm in Bhimber. Ironically, reports now against shows that the same unit may once again be back in operation.
But the recent development has sent a clear message to all government and political sections that PM Faisal Mumtaz Rathore will not tolerate reopening of any illegal cigarette manufacturing units in the premises of Azad Jammu and Kashmir.
