Mudassir Rizwan

Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) has found itself in a state of unrest following the promulgation of the controversial Peaceful Assembly and Public Order Ordinance, 2024. The ordinance has sparked widespread protests and shutdowns across the region, as it imposes severe penalties, including a potential seven-year prison sentence for peaceful demonstrators. This has led to significant backlash from civil society groups, particularly the Jammu Kashmir Joint Awami Action Committee (JKJAAC), which represents a coalition of organizations advocating for the protection of civil liberties. The protesters have made their demands clear: the ordinance must be repealed, as they believe it infringes upon the fundamental right to peaceful assembly, a core democratic value. They argue that the legislation disrupts the balance between maintaining public order and safeguarding individual freedoms.

The AJK Supreme Court has stepped in temporarily, suspending the ordinance, but protests and strikes have continued, reflecting widespread frustration. This marks a critical moment in AJK’s political landscape, as the government’s response has, so far, been inadequate, reminiscent of earlier unrest in May of this year. Back then, protests over soaring electricity bills and taxes escalated into violent confrontations. The government’s delayed response during that crisis cost lives and led to injuries before it finally addressed the public’s grievances by providing a Rs23 billion grant.

The current situation in AJK, however, is far more precarious. AJK has long been seen as a model of autonomy and fairness in contrast to the oppressive measures in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK), where India has used brute force to silence dissent. The handling of the current unrest could have significant implications not only for AJK but also for Pakistan’s international standing. A misstep in AJK risks giving ammunition to those who draw false comparisons between the actions of the Pakistani government and India’s decades-long crackdown on Kashmiris in IIOJK. Pakistan’s approach in AJK has traditionally been one of respect for democratic freedoms, autonomy, and the rights of the Kashmiri people, which must not be undermined.

In response to the protests, the government has taken a step in the right direction by agreeing to release prisoners and establish a broad-based committee to engage in discussions regarding the ordinance. This move reflects the importance of dialogue in resolving the current crisis and offers hope for a peaceful resolution. It is a stark reminder that such issues should be resolved through negotiation and consensus rather than through coercion or authoritarian measures.

The right to peaceful assembly is a cornerstone of any democratic society. It enables citizens to express their grievances, engage in political discourse, and hold their leaders accountable without fear of repression. When this right is suppressed, it not only erodes public trust in the government but also sets a dangerous precedent that undermines the foundations of democracy. If AJK’s government follows through with punitive measures rather than engaging in meaningful dialogue, it risks alienating the very people it serves and eroding the democratic fabric of the region.

To prevent further escalation and restore calm, the government of AJK must engage with civil society groups like JKJAAC in good faith. This means addressing the legitimate concerns of the protesters and addressing the underlying causes of the unrest, rather than opting for repression. It is crucial that the government demonstrates transparency and reaffirms its commitment to democratic principles and civil liberties, particularly the right to peaceful assembly.

Historically, Pakistan has shown maturity in dealing with such crises. In the past, when faced with similar challenges, the government and civil society have worked together to find solutions that are in the best interest of the people. The same approach is needed now. Pakistan’s treatment of AJK has long been a point of national pride. The region has been celebrated as an example of how Pakistan can respect the will of the Kashmiri people and uphold democratic values, even in the face of external pressures. The government must not falter now in ensuring that AJK’s autonomy is preserved and that its people’s rights are safeguarded.

The situation also presents an opportunity for Pakistan to reaffirm its commitment to democratic values. As a nation, Pakistan has long taken pride in distinguishing itself from India’s approach to Kashmir. In stark contrast to India’s suppression of voices in IIOJK, Pakistan has allowed Kashmiris in AJK to enjoy democratic freedoms, including the right to self-governance. This is a point of pride that should not be sacrificed for short-term political gains. The government must not allow itself to be tempted by the authoritarian tendencies that have marred India’s approach to Kashmir. Pakistan must resist the temptation to adopt measures that mirror India’s repressive actions in IIOJK, as this would undermine the very values that Pakistan stands for on the global stage.

To resolve this crisis, it is crucial that all stakeholders approach the situation with maturity and a commitment to peaceful dialogue. The government must listen to the voices of the people and take their grievances seriously. While maintaining public order is important, it should never come at the expense of fundamental democratic rights. The Pakistani government must engage in transparent discussions with civil society, political groups, and protestors to find a solution that respects the constitutional right to peaceful assembly and addresses the concerns raised by the people of AJK.

Moreover, it is essential that Pakistan maintains its moral high ground throughout this crisis. The world is watching, and how Pakistan handles this situation will send a powerful message about its commitment to democracy, human rights, and the rule of law. If Pakistan mishandles this crisis, it risks damaging its international reputation, particularly when it comes to its stance on Kashmir. On the other hand, if the government acts responsibly and addresses the situation through dialogue and reforms, it can further solidify Pakistan’s standing as a champion of democratic values and civil liberties.

Pakistan’s response to the Peaceful Assembly and Public Order Ordinance in AJK will have far-reaching implications, not only for the people of AJK but also for the broader political landscape of the region. By ensuring that the rights of the people are respected, and by engaging in dialogue to resolve this issue, Pakistan can demonstrate its commitment to the democratic values that have long been a hallmark of the nation. Now, more than ever, Pakistan must prove that it is committed to protecting the rights of the Kashmiri people, ensuring that AJK remains a beacon of autonomy and democratic freedom in the region. This is a defining moment, and the actions taken by the government will resonate for years to come.