Bilawal proposes Truth and Reconciliation Commission to address AJK crisis

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari on Tuesday proposed the formation of a consensus-based Truth and Reconciliation Commission to address the political, economic and constitutional grievances in Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) amid escalating tensions and recent violence.

Expressing deep concern over the loss of lives, including recent deaths in Rawalakot, Bilawal described the situation as a “national tragedy” and extended condolences to the bereaved families while praying for the recovery of the injured. He said the deaths of peaceful citizens could not be considered an acceptable consequence of political disagreements and stressed that the lives of police and security personnel must also be protected.

The former foreign minister criticised the federal government’s handling of the situation, describing the unrest as a “man-made crisis” caused by non-political management and inappropriate statements by federal ministers.

“I fully understand that this is a crisis created by the federal ministers,” Bilawal said, urging them to play a constructive role in finding a solution. He also opposed questioning the Kashmiri identity of Rawalakot residents, stating that no one in Islamabad has the authority to determine who is or is not a Kashmiri.

While reaffirming the public’s right to peaceful protest, Bilawal condemned violence and hate speech. He also cautioned authorities against branding peaceful protesters as terrorists, anti-state elements or foreign agents for demanding their rights, calling instead for impartial investigations into allegations of violence involving both protesters and law enforcement personnel.

The PPP chairman proposed that the Truth and Reconciliation Commission be established with the consensus of all stakeholders. He said the body should investigate the facts, examine outstanding political, legal and administrative issues, including the proscription of the protesting organisation, and recommend a durable solution to the crisis.

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Bilawal appealed to protesters to suspend demonstrations, sit-ins and marches once an agreement is reached on the commission’s formation, while urging the government to halt further administrative action until the commission completes its work.

He said he had discussed the proposal with Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, who assured him that the matter would be taken up with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. Bilawal added that the PPP was prepared to facilitate dialogue to help achieve a resolution based on consensus, dignity and mutual respect.