Azad Jammu and Kashmir has, over the past few years, become the centre of various political, economic, and social debates. Protests have emerged at different times over issues such as inflation, electricity tariffs, flour prices, and other public concerns, compelling the government to accept some of the protesters’ demands. In democratic societies, public protest is a recognised right, and citizens are fully entitled to highlight their grievances. However, when a movement goes beyond advocating public rights and becomes associated with confrontation against state institutions, opposition to the electoral process, promotion of unrest, or allegations of links with external actors, questions regarding its objectives and role inevitably arise.
The people of Azad Kashmir are politically aware and understand that the solution to their problems lies in democratic, constitutional, and peaceful struggle, not in activities that could harm the region’s peace, stability, and broader national interests.
In recent days, certain videos, audio recordings, and reports that have surfaced have sparked a new debate in Azad Kashmir’s political landscape. These reports claim that some individuals allegedly linked to Fitna al-Khawarij and representatives of foreign powers were in contact with certain leaders of the banned Joint Public Action Committee and were encouraging activities against state institutions. Although the verification of such claims ultimately falls within the jurisdiction of relevant institutions and courts, these reports have raised several serious questions concerning national security. Pakistan’s position has always been clear: dissent and protest are fundamental rights of every citizen. However, no protest movement can be allowed to be used against national security, state stability, or the democratic process. Therefore, when an organisation or group creates the impression that it is moving closer to elements seeking to spread instability in Pakistan under the guise of public demands, it becomes necessary for the state to take notice of the matter. The geographical and political importance of Azad Kashmir is beyond dispute. In the context of the Kashmir issue, the region serves as one of the most important pillars of Pakistan’s stance. For decades, India has sought to project the impression internationally that the people of Pakistan-administered Kashmir are dissatisfied with their future. This is why Pakistani policymakers emphasise that no protest movement should become fuel for foreign propaganda campaigns. Some audio and video recordings allegedly linked to individuals associated with the Joint Action Committee have recently surfaced, in which they reportedly discuss creating unrest in the country, promoting militancy in Kashmir, and conspiring to undermine the electoral process. If the allegations emerging from these recordings are proven true, they would be a matter of serious concern not only for Azad Kashmir but for Pakistan as a whole. Any association with groups or individuals involved in terrorism, extremism, or anti-state activities severely damages the moral credibility of a movement claiming to represent public interests. Movements for public rights are traditionally built upon the principles of transparency, constitutional struggle, and peaceful protest. When allegations of violence, incitement, or foreign sponsorship become attached to such movements, public trust begins to erode. It is also important to recognise that the people of Azad Kashmir have deep emotional and political ties with Pakistan. They have consistently supported Pakistan’s national interests and its principled position on the Kashmir issue. For this reason, the majority of the population does not support activities that may lead to unrest, instability, or political disorder in the region.
Over the years, Pakistan has made immense sacrifices in the fight against terrorism. Thousands of lives have been lost in the effort to restore peace and stability. Successful operations against Fitna al-Khawarij and other militant organisations have helped place the country back on the path of stability. In such circumstances, any group or individual appearing to reinforce the narratives of these elements becomes a matter of serious concern. An examination of recent protest politics in Azad Kashmir shows that public grievances are genuine and deserve attention. Issues such as inflation, unemployment, energy shortages, and inadequate public services are real challenges, and it is the government’s responsibility to address them through effective policies. However, the solution to these problems does not lie in violence, confrontation with institutions, or attempts to sabotage the democratic process. Rather, the path forward is through dialogue, parliamentary politics, and constitutional struggle. A key question raised by many patriotic circles is this: if a movement’s true objective is the protection of public rights, why should it fear elections, constitutional institutions, or the democratic process? In a democracy, the true measure of public support is the ballot box, not demonstrations of power on the streets. If a movement genuinely enjoys public backing, it should test its mandate through the electoral process.
The Pakistani state has a responsibility to protect public rights while also safeguarding national security. This balance forms the foundation of a strong and stable state. If an organisation has been banned or if investigations are underway against some of its members, such matters should be examined through law and evidence rather than emotional slogans.
Today, what Azad Kashmir needs most is political stability, economic development, and national unity. The region’s youth seek better education, employment opportunities, and prospects for progress. They desire an environment where freedom of expression exists alongside peace and order. This is the path that can lead the people of Kashmir toward a brighter future. It would not be incorrect to say that there is a clear distinction between a struggle for public rights and activities that undermine the state. Movements that respect this distinction earn public trust, while those associated with unrest, violence, or external agendas ultimately lose their credibility.
The people of Azad Kashmir are politically aware and understand that the solution to their problems lies in democratic, constitutional, and peaceful struggle, not in activities that could harm the region’s peace, stability, and broader national interests. The future of Pakistan and Azad Kashmir is linked to unity, stability, and the rule of law. This remains the most effective way to defeat hostile designs and the most important message in the current circumstances.
The writer is an old Aitchisonian who believes in freedom of expression, a freelance columnist, entrepreneur and social activist.