Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari expressed deep concern over the escalating violent protests in Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) on Wednesday, urging the establishment of a high-powered commission to investigate the unrest in accordance with state laws. Speaking to PPP leaders and ticket holders in Muzaffarabad, he emphasized that the situation in AJK was alarming not only for Kashmiris but for all Pakistanis.
His comments came amid a rise in violence linked to ongoing sit-ins and demonstrations across parts of AJK ahead of the July 27 elections for the region’s 53-member Legislative Assembly. On June 5, the AJK government declared the Jammu Kashmir Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC) a banned organization under the Anti-Terrorism Act (ATA), accusing it of engaging in terrorist activities. This ban was imposed just days before the JAAC’s planned June 9 protest, which sought the removal of 12 seats reserved for refugees from Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK) who migrated to Pakistan after 1947.
Bilawal called for the formation of a commission vested with full authority to investigate recent events, insisting that law enforcement agencies conduct their inquiries strictly within the framework of state laws. He urged politicians in both Pakistan and AJK, as well as protest participants, to carefully consider their actions and choose their words responsibly during these sensitive times. Furthermore, he appealed to all political parties to contribute towards restoring peace in the region.
In a significant development, Bilawal underscored that the Pakistani armed forces remain a red line for his party, warning that any hostile rhetoric directed at the military would not be tolerated. He condemned any statements from AJK that targeted the Pakistan Army, reaffirming the PPP’s firm stance against anti-state narratives.
Addressing the people of Kashmir, Bilawal expressed profound hurt over offensive language used against them, stressing that such remarks are unacceptable and that commitments made to Kashmiris must be upheld. He categorically rejected the notion that violent protests and demonstrations could be justified under any circumstances and stated that constitutional amendments cannot be enforced through sit-ins or coercion. He cautioned against the emergence of terrorism-driven politics in Kashmir.
Bilawal reiterated his consistent advocacy for the Kashmir cause and the aspirations of its people, affirming that if Kashmiris endure hardships, his party is ready to stand with them even at great personal cost. He maintained that Kashmiris alone should determine their future, while also emphasizing the protection of voting rights for refugees. His vision remains focused on a peaceful resolution to Kashmir’s challenges, asserting that no individual or group can suppress the region’s sovereignty.
On regional matters, Bilawal noted the recent meeting between Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Israeli leaders prior to the Iran conflict. He issued a stern warning that any Indian attempts to violate the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT) would be met with a united national response, emphasizing Pakistan’s unwavering commitment to its share of the Indus waters. Additionally, he praised Chief of Defence Staff Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir for his evident role in maintaining regional peace and stability.
Meanwhile, responding to a letter from the banned JAAC, Bilawal described the ongoing loss of life in AJK, including recent fatalities, as a national tragedy. He stressed that every Kashmiri life is invaluable and that the death of peaceful citizens cannot be accepted as a consequence of political disputes. At the same time, he highlighted the importance of protecting the lives of police and security personnel.
In his response, Bilawal proposed the creation of a Truth and Reconciliation Commission, with the agreement of all stakeholders, to address the current crisis in AJK. This commission would be responsible for developing recommendations aimed at achieving a just, peaceful, and lasting solution to the region’s difficulties. He emphasized that Pakistan’s relationship with Kashmir should be grounded in consent, dignity, democratic rights, and mutual respect.
Bilawal called for immediate measures to prevent further bloodshed and to rebuild public trust through credible and transparent actions. He appealed to the JAAC to suspend its planned long march and sit-ins once an agreement on the commission’s formation is reached. Additionally, he urged authorities to refrain from taking further actions while the commission conducts its work and awaits its findings and recommendations.
