Islamabad (Digital Post): Azad Kashmir Assembly Pays Tribute to Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir’s Leadership, Reaffirms National Stance on the Kashmir Issue
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Islamabad (Digital Post): Azad Kashmir Assembly Pays Tribute to Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir’s Leadership, Reaffirms National Stance on the Kashmir Issue
By Manzar Naqvi
The unanimous condemnation by the Azad Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly of India’s actions of 5 August 2019, along with its strong support for the Kashmiri people’s right to self-determination, once again highlights the fact that the Kashmir issue is not merely a regional dispute but a longstanding matter linked to international law, human rights, and United Nations resolutions. Nearly seven years have passed since India revoked the special constitutional status of Indian-administered Jammu and Kashmir, yet the consequences of that decision continue to leave a profound impact on regional peace, security, and the lives of the Kashmiri people.
On 5 August 2019, by revoking Articles 370 and 35A of the Indian Constitution, New Delhi not only ended the region’s special constitutional status but also attempted to unilaterally alter the disputed constitutional position of the territory. From the outset, Pakistan described the move as a violation of United Nations Security Council resolutions and international law. At the international level, several human rights organizations also expressed serious concern over restrictions imposed on freedom of expression, freedom of movement, political activities, and fundamental human rights in the region following the decision.
In its resolution, the Azad Kashmir Assembly reaffirmed its unwavering support for the Kashmiri people’s right to self-determination and called upon the international community to play an effective role in ensuring the implementation of United Nations resolutions. The Assembly maintained that a lasting and just solution to the Kashmir dispute cannot be achieved through the use of force or unilateral actions but only in accordance with UN resolutions and the aspirations of the Kashmiri people. It stated that sustainable peace in South Asia is possible only when this longstanding dispute is resolved in line with justice and international law.
The Assembly also expressed concern over alleged human rights violations in Indian-administered Kashmir, including the detention of political leaders, enforced disappearances, restrictions on freedom of expression, and limitations on civil liberties. It emphasized that respect for human rights is the foundation of every civilized society and urged international organizations and human rights bodies to continue impartial monitoring of the situation and discourage actions that are inconsistent with fundamental human rights.
The proposal presented in the Assembly to establish a Truth and Reconciliation Commission was also described as significant. According to the discussion, if the purpose of such a commission is to resolve internal political differences through dialogue, confidence-building, transparency, and the rule of law, it could prove to be a positive development. In democratic societies, political disagreements are best addressed through institutional reforms, transparent investigations, and mutual trust rather than confrontation or the use of force. The Assembly observed that political stability, transparent elections, and strengthened public confidence in Azad Kashmir would not only reinforce the local governance system but also strengthen Pakistan’s position on the Kashmir issue.
The Assembly paid tribute to the Pakistan Armed Forces, the success of Operation Bunyan-un-Marsoos, and the leadership of Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir. It stated that the role of the armed forces in safeguarding national security, defending the country’s borders, and protecting state sovereignty has always been of great importance. At the same time, it emphasized that all elements of national strength—including political leadership, Parliament, the judiciary, diplomacy, the economy, and state institutions—must work in harmony so that Pakistan can present its position more effectively on the international stage.
During the Assembly session, public issues within Azad Kashmir, including inadequate telecommunication and internet services as well as the preservation and promotion of regional languages, were also discussed. The debate highlighted that the everyday needs of the public cannot be overlooked. In the modern era, improved communication systems, quality education, preservation of cultural heritage, and digital connectivity are considered essential pillars of societal development. Progress in these areas, the Assembly noted, can contribute to greater public confidence and social advancement.
The article concludes that Pakistan’s case on Kashmir should not remain limited to diplomatic statements alone. Instead, it should be advanced through effective diplomacy, adherence to international law, the promotion of human rights principles, and national unity. It states that Pakistan should continue proactive engagement on international forums, consistently highlight the human rights situation in Indian-administered Kashmir, and further build global support for the implementation of United Nations resolutions.
Finally, it emphasizes that maintaining national consensus on the Kashmir issue, strengthening democratic institutions in Azad Kashmir, and promoting public confidence, political stability, and transparent governance are essential. According to the article, internal stability combined with effective diplomacy can further strengthen and reinforce Pakistan’s position on the Kashmir issue at the international level.
