MUZAFFARABAD: The leaders of major political parties in Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) have strongly criticized what they described as violent protests and anti-state rhetoric.
In this regard, Muslim Conference President Sardar Atiq Ahmad Khan, Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) AJK President Shah Ghulam Qadir, and other political leaders expressed concern over recent developments in the region.
They stressed the importance of peaceful political activity and warned against actions that could undermine public order and national unity.
Shah Ghulam Qadir said that the Government of Pakistan had provided financial assistance amounting to Rs23 billion, which helped ensure the supply of subsidized electricity and flour to the people of Azad Kashmir.
He noted that the debate had moved beyond public rights and welfare issues toward constitutional matters, creating additional challenges.
He focused on that Pakistan holds a special and respected place in the hearts of the people of Kashmir.
During the press conference, Shah Ghulam Qadir also criticized certain political figures, alleging that their speeches encouraged confrontation and unrest.
He claimed that some individuals attempted to promote narratives against the state and the armed forces, adding that the ideological bond between Kashmiris and Pakistan remains strong.
In this sense, Sardar Atiq Ahmad Khan stated that despite concessions and relief measures provided by the government, some groups adopted what he described as an inappropriate path of protest and violence.
He claimed that 17 people lost their lives during the unrest and alleged that attempts were made to create divisions within the armed forces, though such efforts were unsuccessful.
He reasserted his support for peaceful political struggle and praised Pakistan’s armed forces, describing them as among the finest in the world. The relationship between the people of Kashmir and Pakistan’s military institutions is longstanding and based on mutual trust.
Sardar Atiq further said that Pakistan’s military leadership enjoys the confidence of the Kashmiri people and credited Pakistan with playing a significant role in promoting regional peace.
Nabeela Ayub alleged that the movement in question did not represent a genuine public campaign but rather reflected the agenda of a limited group of individuals.
