LAHORE (MNN); Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) President Nawaz Sharif on Wednesday expressed concern over the evolving political situation in Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK), urging protesters to end sit-ins and demonstrations and seek resolution of issues through constructive dialogue with the government.
Speaking at a meeting in Lahore attended by senior PML-N leaders from AJK, Nawaz Sharif said that under the Interim Constitution Act of 1974, the people of Azad Jammu and Kashmir enjoy full democratic and civil rights and should pursue their demands through constitutional and democratic means.
The meeting was convened to review the political and administrative situation in the region. A statement issued by PML-N central spokesperson and Punjab Senior Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb said the party’s AJK leadership had requested Nawaz Sharif to help address the growing tensions in the region.
Nawaz expressed hope that the people of AJK, the AJK government, the federal government and all political parties would work together to restore peace and ensure a smooth electoral process ahead of the AJK elections scheduled for next month.
He emphasized that all available resources should be utilized for the welfare and development of the people of AJK and stressed that any movement for public rights must remain within the constitutional framework.
Azad Jammu and Kashmir has recently witnessed political unrest and public protests over issues including reserved refugee seats in the legislative assembly, inflation, electricity tariffs and the rising cost of living. Violent clashes earlier this month resulted in the deaths of several individuals, including security personnel, while tensions continue to persist.
Reviewing the situation, Nawaz Sharif reiterated that the PML-N has always maintained a principled stance on the Kashmir issue and supports the right of self-determination for the people of Jammu and Kashmir in accordance with United Nations resolutions.
He said the party has consistently prioritized the constitutional rights, development and prosperity of the people of AJK and would continue to work alongside all democratic forces for the region’s progress.
The former prime minister also expressed deep sorrow over the loss of both civilian and official lives in recent incidents, saying such circumstances should never have arisen. He stressed the need for unity, noting that the people of Kashmir have made unparalleled sacrifices for Pakistan.
Nawaz Sharif reaffirmed Pakistan’s longstanding support for the Kashmiri cause and appealed to the people of Jammu and Kashmir to maintain their strong ideological and emotional ties with Pakistan while preserving peace and stability.
Referring to recent regional developments, he praised the achievements of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s government and the country’s defence institutions, saying these successes make it even more important to promote harmony, tolerance and national unity in both Pakistan and Azad Jammu and Kashmir.
He also urged people to avoid participating in activities that could undermine peace, brotherhood and stability in the region.
