Khawaja Asif Welcomes Possible Mediation by Maulana Fazlur Rehman to Ease AJK Political Tensions

Islamabad: Defence Minister Khawaja Asif has expressed support for efforts to end the ongoing political tensions in Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK), saying he would welcome any successful mediation by Maulana Fazlur Rehman.

Speaking to a private television channel, Khawaja Asif said Kashmiri refugees living in Pakistan have made immense sacrifices for both Pakistan and the Kashmir cause. He said it would be inappropriate to deprive them of political representation or limit their democratic rights.

The defence minister said the sacrifices of Kashmiris can be viewed in three categories. He described the people of Indian-administered Kashmir as the first and most significant group, saying they have endured decades of struggle and made extraordinary sacrifices over the past 75 years. He added that their commitment to Pakistan and the freedom movement remains unwavering.

Khawaja Asif identified Kashmiri refugees who migrated during or after the 1947 partition as the second category, stating that their hardships and sacrifices should not be forgotten. He expressed concern that their reserved representative seats have now become a subject of political controversy.

He said the third category comprises the current residents of Azad Jammu and Kashmir, acknowledging their identity and contributions while emphasizing that the sacrifices of both the people of Indian-administered Kashmir and Kashmiri refugees deserve special recognition.

Drawing a comparison with the migration following the partition of the subcontinent, Khawaja Asif said millions who migrated from Indian Punjab also made significant sacrifices. He noted that while his own family remained in Sialkot, those who migrated endured greater hardships and therefore deserved due recognition.

The defence minister further said that, in his personal opinion, the sacrifices made in Indian-administered Kashmir since 1947 are unparalleled, and those who have actively participated in the struggle should be given special consideration regarding their rights and entitlements.

Commenting on the possibility of Maulana Fazlur Rehman playing a mediating role, Khawaja Asif said he had already spoken about the matter on the floor of the National Assembly. He added that he would welcome any reconciliation initiative led by the JUI-F chief and would support the process if all relevant stakeholders agreed to it.