LAHORE: Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) President Nawaz Sharif on Wednesday appealed to protestors in Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) to cease violence and emphasized the importance of initiating genuine dialogue among all stakeholders. During a party meeting in Lahore, he voiced concern over the escalating political tensions in the region and urged the government, political parties, and AJK authorities to collaborate for peace and stability.
The former Prime Minister’s remarks came amid growing unrest following the AJK government’s decision on June 5 to designate the Jammu Kashmir Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC) as a banned organization under the Anti-Terrorism Act (ATA), accusing it of involvement in terrorism activities. The ban was enacted shortly before the planned protest on June 9, which aimed to demand the removal of 12 reserved seats for refugees from Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK) who migrated to Pakistan post-1947.
In his address, Nawaz expressed regret over the current state of affairs in AJK, emphasizing that such circumstances should not have arisen. “This nation belongs to all of us,” he stated, asserting that political and civil rights must be exercised within the constitutional framework.
He called for an immediate halt to protests and urged all political entities, the AJK administration, and the federal government to unite in efforts to restore peace. Nawaz highlighted the importance of fostering tolerance, mutual respect, and democratic practices for the betterment of the region.
The meeting also paid homage to those who lost their lives in recent violence in AJK and offered prayers for their souls. Nawaz reiterated PML-N’s longstanding commitment to safeguarding constitutional rights, promoting public welfare, and undertaking development projects for the people of AJK.
Addressing the Kashmir issue, Nawaz reaffirmed the party’s stance that the people of IIOJK must be granted their right to self-determination in line with United Nations resolutions. “Kashmiris have made sacrifices that are unforgettable in the service of Pakistan,” he remarked.
He urged Kashmiris to uphold their ideological and cultural bonds with Pakistan, emphasizing the importance of peaceful activism. Nawaz also lauded Federal Minister Amir Muqam for his efforts in organizing electoral campaigns in Gilgit-Baltistan and AJK.
The meeting was attended by senior PML-N leaders, including representatives from the party’s AJK chapter, reaffirming the party’s commitment to regional stability and democratic values.
