ISLAMABAD: Leader of the Opposition in the National Assembly Mehmood Khan Achakzai on Monday urged all political forces, government representatives and public leadership to refrain from inciting statements and actions that could escalate tensions in Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK).
He stressed that immediate confidence-building measures are indispensable for ending the current stalemate and initiating meaningful dialogue. To this end, he contended that there is a need to restore the status quo ante June 5, remove extraordinary restrictions—including the Fourth Schedule imposed on leaders and workers of the Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC)—and immediately lift curbs on movement to create a conducive environment for talks.
Achakzai also appealed to the JAAC to review the long march scheduled for June 23, and called on all parties to avoid any steps that could lead to conflict. He stated that there should be no scope for the use of force, crackdown, or violence by any party, particularly in view of the sanctity of Muharram-ul-Haram and the day of Ashura.
He made these remarks during a meeting with a delegation of representatives from the AJK at the Parliament House. The delegation was led by Advocate Nabila Irshad, Chairperson of the Jammu and Kashmir Democratic Party, while Sardar Abdul Majid, Sardar Ishtiaq, Civil Society and Human Rights Council representative, Muhammad Shafiq Farooqi, Shaista Abdullah Gulzar, Junaid Ahmed, Advocate Zufshan, Advocate Usman Nazir and Imran Jahangir Kayani were also present in the meeting.
Former speaker of the National Assembly Asad Qaiser, spokesman of the opposition alliance Akhunzada Hussain and MNAs Shahram Khan Tarakai and Atif Khan were also in attendance.
A detailed discussion was held on the ongoing public protests in the AJK and the resulting political, social and humanitarian situation. The delegation briefed the leader of the opposition on the background of the current crisis, public concerns and the stance of various parties, and expressed concern that the situation is continuously escalating towards tension.
On this occasion, Achakzai stated that the AJK people have made unprecedented sacrifices for the Kashmir cause and for democratic and national rights; therefore, a solution to the current situation should be found through tolerance, forbearance, political insight and mutual respect.
He added that the solution to political and public issues lies not in force or administrative measures but in serious negotiations, mutual trust and recognition of the legitimate demands of the people. He insisted that the government, the JAAC and other relevant parties should immediately come to the negotiating table to find a sustainable, peaceful and acceptable solution.
The opposition leader also stressed that uninterrupted supply of food, medicines, petroleum products and other essential commodities should be ensured so that ordinary citizens do not face further difficulties.
At the end of the meeting, he expressed hope that all parties would demonstrate national responsibility and find a peaceful solution to the current crisis based on understanding, dialogue and democratic principles.
Separately, a team of senior journalists called on Achakzai in his chamber, and the two sides exchanged views on the political situation in the country, especially the AJK current situation. Achakzai assured them that he would highlight the AJK current situation on the floor of the National Assembly and expressed hope that the government would try to resolve the situation politically and would raise its voice on every platform to improve the current critical situation.
