AJK PM Rathore urges dialogue to resolve AJK crisis, calls for end to ‘base camp’ mindset

Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) Prime Minister Faisal Mumtaz Rathore has emphasized that dialogue is the sole path to resolving the current crisis, which he attributes to the movement led by the proscribed Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC).

Speaking to journalists, Rathore expressed concern that the situation could become "alarming" and hoped for a resolution following the formation of a new government, placing significant responsibility on the PML-N. He addressed the JAAC's demands, noting that while they sought ownership rights, Poonch was deprived of representation. Rathore mentioned a promise to abolish four refugee seats, a proposal rejected by the committee's leaders.

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I had promised the action committee that four refugee seats would be abolished, but its leaders did not accept my advice.

Rathore also supported PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari's suggestion for a truth and reconciliation commission as a potential way out of the crisis. The AJK government had declared the JAAC a proscribed organization on June 5, citing its involvement in "terrorism" and actions "prejudicial to peace and security." The notification further accused the group of "creating anarchy" by intimidating the public and fostering insecurity.

Furthermore, Rathore criticized the PML-N's AJK leadership, alleging they "rushed" into regional elections to gain power, despite his party's stance that peace should be restored first. He claimed the PPP was not provided a level playing field in the elections, with tactics allegedly used to ensure the PML-N's victory and some initial PPP wins subsequently reversed. Rathore defended his own constituency's election, LA-17, stating Haveli was the only area without rigging allegations.

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Our position was that peace should first be restored in the state and elections should be held afterwards, but the PML-N insisted on holding elections and forming the government at all costs.