ISLAMABAD: Pakistan on Monday dismissed as “irresponsible and ill-informed” the comments made by certain British Members of Parliament and members of the Pakistani diaspora in the United Kingdom regarding Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK).
In a strongly worded statement, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said it had noted with concern the “unwarranted insinuations” that reflected a lack of awareness and disregard for the historical background of the dispute. “For those still living in colonial times, it bears reiterating that Pakistan is a sovereign and democratic republic,” the statement added. The Foreign Office urged the individuals to refrain from interfering in Pakistan’s internal affairs and instead contribute positively to their country of residence.
The response comes amid heightened tensions in AJK, where at least seven people have died in recent unrest. Police confirmed that four security personnel were martyred and three members of the proscribed Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC) were killed during an operation to clear miscreants from the Combined Military Hospital (CMH) Rawalakot. The Foreign Office emphasized that while the governments of Pakistan and AJK fully respect citizens’ constitutional rights to peaceful assembly and expression, “vandalism, destruction of public services, and the killing of innocent civilians and law enforcement officials cannot be permitted under any circumstances.”
Pakistan’s firm rejection of external commentary on AJK underscores its long-standing position that the region’s status is a bilateral issue between Pakistan and India, as outlined in UN Security Council resolutions. The Foreign Office called on the British government to “educate and caution those supporting proscribed organisations” and to respect the democratic process and rule of law enshrined in the constitutions of both Pakistan and AJK.
The development follows a series of protests and clashes in AJK, with local authorities accusing the JAAC of inciting violence. The Pakistani government has reiterated its commitment to maintaining law and order while upholding fundamental rights. Analysts say the episode reflects broader concerns over external interference in the Kashmir dispute, which remains a flashpoint in South Asian geopolitics.
Source: ARY News