Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Chairman Bilawal has voiced serious concern over the ongoing violence and rising tensions in Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK), proposing the creation of a truth and reconciliation commission. This body would aim to address the region’s political, economic, and constitutional grievances through a consensus-driven approach.
Describing the recent deaths in Rawalakot as a “national tragedy,” Bilawal extended his sympathies to the families affected and wished a speedy recovery for the injured. He stressed that the loss of peaceful civilians should never be accepted as a consequence of political disputes and underscored the importance of safeguarding the lives of police and security personnel as well.
In a significant development, the former foreign minister criticized the federal government’s handling of the crisis, labeling it a “man-made” situation resulting from poor management and inappropriate remarks by federal ministers. He explicitly held these ministers responsible for the turmoil and urged them to adopt a constructive role in resolving the conflict.
Bilawal also rejected any attempts to question the Kashmiri identity of Rawalakot residents, asserting that no authority in Islamabad has the right to define who qualifies as a Kashmiri. While supporting the public’s right to peaceful protest, he warned against violence and inflammatory rhetoric. At the same time, he cautioned authorities against indiscriminately branding peaceful demonstrators as terrorists, anti-Pakistan elements, or foreign agents simply for asserting their rights.
He called for impartial, case-by-case investigations into all allegations of violence, whether committed by protesters or law enforcement officials. To move forward, Bilawal proposed establishing a Truth and Reconciliation Commission with the agreement of all stakeholders. This commission would be tasked with uncovering facts, reviewing unresolved political, legal, and administrative issues—including the ban on the protesting organization—and recommending sustainable solutions.
Bilawal appealed to protesters to suspend their demonstrations, sit-ins, and marches once consensus is reached on forming the commission. Simultaneously, he urged the government to refrain from taking further administrative actions until the commission completes its work.
He confirmed discussions on this proposal with Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, who assured him that the matter would be presented to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. Bilawal emphasized that the PPP is prepared to facilitate mediation efforts to achieve a resolution grounded in consent, dignity, and mutual respect.
