Pakistan Peoples Party Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari said the ongoing unrest in Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) was harming both the Kashmir cause and Pakistan’s international image.
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In a statement, Bilawal said the situation was creating opportunities for hostile elements to exploit regional tensions. He stressed the need to address political disagreements through constitutional and democratic channels.
The statement came after authorities declared the Jammu Kashmir Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC) a proscribed organisation under the Anti-Terrorism Act on June 5.
Officials imposed the ban ahead of the group’s planned June 9 protest against reserved seats in the AJK Assembly for refugees from Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir who migrated after 1947.
Earlier, AJK police reported that clashes and firing incidents on June 8 resulted in the deaths of four law enforcement personnel and injuries to more than 20 police and security officials in Rawalakot.
Bilawal Calls for Dialogue
Bilawal said parliament and the political process remain the appropriate platforms to resolve grievances.
He added that his party had already demanded the withdrawal of the election schedule and supported efforts to reach a political settlement.
According to Bilawal, authorities should consider establishing a Truth and Reconciliation Commission to address unresolved concerns and move toward a fair outcome.
He also appealed to protesters to end demonstrations peacefully and urged those accused of breaking the law to surrender and allow legal procedures to continue.
Rule of Law and Political Engagement
Bilawal said the people of Kashmir should not face prolonged confrontation and uncertainty.
He added that authorities could review notifications related to protesting groups if all stakeholders reached a broader agreement.
At the same time, he maintained that there could be no compromise on the rule of law and accountability for unlawful actions.
However, Bilawal said the government must also ensure that individuals not involved in wrongdoing do not face unnecessary consequences.
His remarks came a day after Adviser to the Prime Minister on Political Affairs Rana Sanaullah claimed that external actors supported the banned group financially and rejected efforts aimed at resolving disputes through dialogue.
