AJK situation: Ashrafi warns against politics of violence, calls for dialogue to resolve issues

Lahore (Web Desk): Pakistan Ulema Council Chairman Hafiz Tahir Mahmood Ashrafi has stated that dialogue is the most effective approach for resolving all kinds of issues and disagreements.

While addressing a press conference in Lahore on Monday, he said that the government of Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) had consistently worked to settle matters through peaceful engagement and mutual understanding, making sincere efforts in this regard.

He strongly condemned the attack on the Combined Military Hospital (CMH) in Rawalakot, calling it extremely regrettable and totally unacceptable.

Ashrafi regretted that although political stakeholders in Azad Jammu and Kashmir were engaged in discussions, certain factions were still resorting to violence instead of continuing the path of negotiation.

Ashrafi maintained that no justification can be given for assaults on the country’s security institutions under any circumstances.

He also stated that if any group believes it holds genuine public backing, it should seek legitimacy through elections and pursue political change via constitutional and parliamentary processes, adding that violence and unrest only weaken national unity and damage the broader Kashmir cause. 

The Pakistan Ulema Council chief further remarked that it is the state’s responsibility to take firm action against those who go against the Constitution and break the law.

He also pointed out that Paigham-e-Pakistan is a collectively agreed national document that promotes peace, harmony, tolerance and unity among the people.

Ashrafi added that the National Peace Committee is actively functioning across the country to encourage stability, mutual respect, and social cohesion.