The formation of a high-level negotiation committee by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to hold talks with the Awami Action Committee in Azad Kashmir is a welcome and positive step in the right direction.
The committee includes senior political leaders from Pakistan Muslim League (N) and the Pakistan Peoples Party. Earlier, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif had already announced a special relief package of Rs 23 billion for the people of Azad Kashmir.
The Prime Minister not only took immediate notice of the situation and formed a high-level committee, but also ordered transparent and impartial investigations into the unfortunate incidents, while directing immediate assistance for the affected families. This reflects his deep affection, strong commitment, and genuine concern for the issues of the Kashmiri people.
Dialogue and democratic political processes are the best way to resolve issues, and protesters should also respond through democratic political behavior. If the Joint Awami Action Committee does not respond positively to the Prime Minister’s offer of dialogue, it will leave no doubt about the real agenda of its leadership.
The inclusion of senior leaders such as Senator Rana Sanaullah Khan (Prime Minister’s Political Advisor and senior PML-N leader), federal ministers Sardar Yousaf and Ahsan Iqbal, former AJK president Masood Khan, and PPP’s central leader Qamar Zaman Kaira in the negotiation committee is a wise and commendable decision, as political leaders are best suited to handle such situations.
The formation of a broad, high-level negotiation committee and other measures reflect Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s democratic mindset and pro-people approach. Previously, the Prime Minister had also sent Federal Ministers Engineer Amir Muqam and Dr. Tariq Fazal Chaudhry to Muzaffarabad for talks, where the protesters’ demands were accepted. However, new demands later escalated the situation.
Once the negotiation process has begun, there is no need for unrest, agitation, or protest. By recognizing peaceful protest as a constitutional and democratic right, the Prime Minister has stood with the people of Azad Kashmir. In return, protesters must ensure the protection of public and private property.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has also instructed law enforcement agencies to act with patience and restraint so the situation does not worsen. Respecting public sentiments in accordance with the Constitution, law, and democratic traditions has always been a hallmark of the Pakistan Muslim League (N).
The Government of Pakistan has always prioritized addressing the issues of the people of Azad Jammu and Kashmir. The Prime Minister has directed the government’s negotiation committee to present its recommendations immediately. Upon receiving them, he will take prompt action to resolve public grievances.
Upon his return, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif will personally oversee the negotiation process.
