ISLAMBAD:
The opposition on Tuesday criticized the state’s handling of the situation in Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK), alleging that public rights, constitutional rule and freedom of expression were being undermined, while calling for an end to “state repression”.
Addressing a joint press conference in Islamabad, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) General Secretary Salman Akram Raja and Majlis Wahdat-e-Muslimeen (MWM) Chairman Allama Raja Nasir Abbas alleged that the situation in AJK was being covered up by the state media while the real conditions were being reflected on social media.
They maintained that constitutional and democratic rights were threatened and demanded an end to coercive measures against the people.
Raja claimed that Kashmir was facing a serious crisis and claimed that after the recent deaths, the bodies of some victims had not been handed over to their families.
He further alleged that fascism, repression and the absence of constitutional and legal supremacy had taken root in the region, adding that public rights had been restricted in the last four years and the sanctity of voting had been undermined, causing harm to Pakistan.
Raja said he would continue to raise his voice against injustice, alleging that Imran had been illegally imprisoned and accusing the state of trying to appease foreign interests.
He called on authorities to end the brutality and said his party was fighting for the nation and for decency.
He also lamented the declining respect for human life in society, while vowing to continue addressing all challenges.
On the occasion, Allama Raja Nasir Abbas said that every state must function in accordance with its constitution and the rule of law.
He claimed that Azad Kashmir was not part of Pakistan but a separate state and condemned the alleged use of force against the protesters.
