MUZAFFARABAD – The Human Rights Council of Azad Jammu and Kashmir has welcomed the initiation of talks between the AJK government and the Awami Action Committee, calling it a significant step towards resolving public issues through peaceful means. The council said the development reflected the importance of constructive dialogue and mutual cooperation as the only viable path to addressing longstanding grievances.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, the Human Rights Council stressed that the state’s fundamental challenges and the hardships faced by the people could not be resolved through confrontation or neglect. “The restoration of human rights and provision of basic rights to citizens is the only path to genuine and lasting peace,” the council noted, adding that all stakeholders must recognise the centrality of dialogue in achieving stability.
The council highlighted three points of concern. First, it urged the authorities to address public problems on a priority basis rather than ignoring them. Second, it called for protection of life and property and respect for fundamental rights to be made an integral part of state policy. Third, it emphasised that negotiations must be pursued with sincerity, seriousness and good faith so that a sustainable solution could emerge from the process.
The Human Rights Council expressed hope that the dialogue would pave the way for a durable and peaceful resolution of the issues confronting the people of Azad Jammu and Kashmir. It reiterated its longstanding commitment to stand by the principles of human rights, justice and the resolution of public grievances, and assured that it would continue to raise its voice for these causes at every available forum.
