Nawaz Sharif Urges Dialogue Amid Protests in Azad Jammu and Kashmir
PML-N President Nawaz Sharif has called on protesters in Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) to end their demonstrations and engage in constructive dialogue with the government. His appeal, made during a meeting in Lahore, follows recent political and social tensions in the region, which have included public protests over issues such as reserved refugee seats, inflation, and electricity tariffs. Clashes approximately 10 days prior resulted in fatalities among both civilians and security personnel, prompting Sharif to express sorrow and emphasize a peaceful resolution.
PML-N President Nawaz Sharif on Wednesday expressed concern over the political situation in Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK), urging protesters to end sit-ins and demonstrations. He called for engagement in meaningful dialogue with the government, stating that under the Interim Constitution Act of 1974, the people of AJK enjoy full civil liberties and democratic rights.
Sharif's remarks were made at a meeting in Lahore convened to discuss the political and administrative situation in Kashmir. Senior leaders of the PML-N from AJK attended the gathering. Following the meeting, PML-N central spokesperson and Punjab Senior Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb issued a statement.
Azad Jammu and Kashmir has recently experienced political and social tensions, marked by public protests. Key issues driving these demonstrations include the 12 reserved refugee seats in the legislative assembly, inflation, electricity tariffs, and the rising cost of living. Clashes related to these tensions erupted 10 days earlier, resulting in the loss of several lives, including security personnel. Tensions in the region reportedly persist.
Sharif expressed hope that the people of AJK, the AJK government, the government of Pakistan, and all political parties would collectively contribute to restoring peace and advancing the electoral process. AJK elections are anticipated at the end of next month. He also stressed the importance of utilizing all available resources for the welfare of AJK's people and conducting any movement for public rights within the constitutional framework.
The PML-N president reiterated his party's clear and principled stance on the Kashmir issue, affirming that the people of the region should be granted their right to self-determination in accordance with United Nations resolutions. He emphasized that the PML-N has consistently prioritized the constitutional and fundamental rights, as well as the development and prosperity, of the people of AJK, pledging continued cooperation with "all democratic forces."
Sharif conveyed deep sorrow over the loss of lives, including officials and civilians, in the recent incidents. He appealed to the people of Jammu and Kashmir to maintain their ideological and emotional bond with Pakistan and to remain peaceful. Referring to prevailing regional circumstances, he noted achievements by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s government and the country’s defence institutions, highlighting a need to promote brotherhood, harmony, and tolerance in both Pakistan and Azad Jammu and Kashmir.
Nawaz Sharif had returned to Lahore yesterday after spending approximately three weeks in Switzerland and Saudi Arabia.
(Source: Dawn Pakistan)
