Bilawal Bhutto calls for dialogue on AJK crisis, warns against violence

Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari has said that the banned Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC) could see its proscribed status lifted if it surrenders unconditionally and ends its protest, urging a peaceful resolution to the crisis in Azad Jammu and Kashmir.

Addressing a National Assembly session, Bilawal expressed concern over the situation in AJK, saying shortages of essential goods and ongoing unrest were damaging Pakistan’s international image as well as the Kashmir cause.

He called for strict legal action against those resorting to violence, urging law enforcement agencies to intervene while warning protesters to distance themselves from extremist elements within their ranks.

Bilawal said the issue of migrant (refugee) representation seats had become highly sensitive but could still be resolved through dialogue and legislation rather than protests or threats.

He maintained that Kashmiris should decide their own future and reiterated that governance matters must remain within Pakistan’s constitutional framework.

He added that talks with the Action Committee had been “80 percent complete” and stressed that PPP was not opposed to negotiations, saying peaceful political engagement remained the only viable solution.

On voting rights for refugees, Bilawal said there was no objection in principle, but warned against using pressure tactics that could worsen the situation.