Bilawal urges dialogue, independent probe to resolve AJK unrest

Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari has called for a peaceful political solution to the ongoing unrest in Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK). He warned that prolonged instability could damage both the Kashmir cause and Pakistan’s international image. He stressed that all stakeholders should work together to restore peace through dialogue instead of confrontation.

Addressing party office-bearers and election candidates in Muzaffarabad, Bilawal described the recent violence as a national tragedy. He expressed grief over the loss of lives and extended condolences to the families of those killed. He said every allegation related to the unrest should be investigated fairly, transparently and according to the law.

Bilawal proposed the formation of an independent commission consisting of representatives from all relevant stakeholders. He said the commission should investigate the causes of the unrest, review political, legal and administrative issues, examine the concerns of all parties and recommend a practical and long-term solution.

He appealed to protesters to suspend sit-ins, long marches and demonstrations if the government agreed to establish such a commission. According to Bilawal, reducing tensions through dialogue would help prevent further violence and create an environment for meaningful negotiations.

The PPP chairman said he had already discussed the proposal with Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar. He added that Dar assured him the matter would be presented to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif for consideration.

Bilawal emphasized that political disagreements should never create opportunities for Pakistan’s opponents to exploit internal issues. He said national unity was essential during challenging times and urged all sides to avoid inflammatory statements that could worsen the situation.

While addressing criticism of the armed forces, Bilawal said Pakistan’s military remained a red line. He said attacks on the country’s armed forces were unacceptable and called for responsible political discourse. At the same time, he acknowledged that the grievances raised by protesters deserved attention and should be addressed through constitutional and democratic means.

The PPP chairman also proposed holding a constitutional convention in AJK after the upcoming elections. He said the people of Kashmir should decide whether further constitutional, political, administrative and economic reforms were needed. According to him, decisions regarding the future of AJK should be made by the people of Kashmir themselves.

Speaking about the controversial issue of the 12 reserved seats for Kashmiri refugees in the AJK Legislative Assembly, Bilawal said such constitutional matters should never be settled through violence or pressure. He urged all political forces to resolve the issue through consultation and democratic consensus while protecting refugee representation.

Bilawal also suggested giving AJK observer status in major national institutions, including Parliament, the Senate, the National Finance Commission and the Council of Common Interests. He said greater representation would allow Kashmir’s concerns to be raised before they developed into larger disputes.

Referring to the July 27 AJK elections, Bilawal said the PPP would continue its election campaign despite the ongoing unrest. He reaffirmed his party’s commitment to protecting the political, economic and constitutional rights of the people of Kashmir. He also pledged to respect the electoral mandate regardless of which political party emerged victorious