Khawaja Asif urges public vote on AJK refugee seat issue

Defence Minister Khawaja Asif has called on the proscribed Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC) to allow the people of Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) to

Defence Minister Khawaja Asif has called on the proscribed Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC) to allow the people of Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) to decide the future of 12 reserved refugee seats through the electoral process.

He made the remarks while speaking in the National Assembly amid ongoing tensions in the region.

The minister said the issue should be resolved by voters in the upcoming elections scheduled for July 27. He added that decisions about the structure of the assembly should not be made through street agitation.

He questioned attempts to change the system without public approval. He suggested that such matters should be taken directly to the electorate.

Khawaja Asif said Kashmiri refugees who settled in Pakistan had made sacrifices and their rights must be protected. He stressed that any changes to their representation should follow constitutional and democratic procedures.

He further stated that Pakistan and its people had played a major role in supporting the Kashmir cause. He said the current status of AJK reflects national-level sacrifices and contributions.

The defence minister warned against lawlessness. He said the government would not remain silent if the situation deteriorates further.

He reiterated that dialogue is the only solution. He urged all parties to resolve disputes through the AJK Legislative Assembly instead of confrontation on the streets.

Meanwhile, tensions continue in several parts of AJK. Security remains tight as authorities respond to ongoing unrest linked to protest movements.

The JAAC has recently been declared a proscribed organisation. Officials have accused the group of activities that threaten peace and stability in the region.

Following the ban, a crackdown was launched against its leadership and activists. Several arrests have been reported, and movement restrictions remain in place in sensitive areas.