ISLAMABAD: Former Prime Minister of Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) and President of the All Jammu and Kashmir Muslim Conference, Sardar Attique Ahmed Khan, has said that rebellion against Pakistan’s armed forces is an “unforgivable crime,” calling for strict and exemplary punishment for those involved in inciting hatred against the military.
Addressing a press conference in Islamabad, he said that while public economic grievances were legitimate, certain elements had allegedly steered the situation toward confrontation with the state instead of remaining focused on demands for relief.
Claims of concessions and escalation of unrest
Sardar Attique said both the Government of Pakistan and the AJK government had shown “flexibility” by accepting several public demands and suspending legal cases, including FIRs. However, he alleged that the movement later expanded beyond economic issues into constitutional and political disputes.
He added that efforts for dialogue and backchannel negotiations were made to de-escalate tensions, but the situation was eventually “hijacked by violent elements,” resulting in loss of life and unrest in parts of AJK.
Remarks on Pakistan Army and Kashmir issue
The AJK leader praised Pakistan’s armed forces, calling them among the strongest defensive institutions globally, and said the relationship between Kashmiris and the Pakistan Army is historically rooted. He also referred to the ideological alignment of the region with Pakistan and reiterated his stance on the Kashmir dispute.
He further said that Azad Kashmir and Gilgit-Baltistan were “secured through sacrifices,” and emphasized that any attempt to undermine state institutions would not be tolerated.
Call for strict legal action
Sardar Attique urged authorities to take firm action against those involved in violence or attacks on state institutions, saying the law should distinguish between peaceful protesters and those engaging in subversive activity.
He also termed certain constitutional demands “unacceptable,” calling them an attempt to undermine national sovereignty.
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