Maria Iqbal Tarana*
The once relatively peaceful region of Pakistan-Administered Kashmir, also known as Azad Jammu Kashmir (AJK), was recently engulfed in unrest. The catalyst for this turmoil was the skyrocketing prices of essential goods such as wheat flour, fuel, and electricity. The Jammu Kashmir Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC) has been at the forefront of these protests demanding subsidized flour and electricity to alleviate the economic strain on the population.
The situation escalated further following the arrest of several JAAC leaders, resulting in violent clashes with police and paramilitary forces, leading to casualties and injuries.
Historically, Pakistan-Administered Kashmir has not been a hotbed of political activity. The region has maintained a semblance of stability, with limited political activism. However, the current wave of protests indicates a shift, reflecting growing discontent among the population over economic hardships and perceived discrimination by the federal government in Islamabad. The demands of the JAAC underscore a broader frustration and a yearning for substantial change.
Comparing Indian-Administered Kashmir and Pakistan-Administered Kashmir reveals a complex landscape. Indian-Administered Kashmir has grappled with significant unrest, militancy, and human rights issues, while Pakistan-Administered Kashmir has enjoyed relative stability.
Nonetheless, both regions face unique challenges. Indian-Administered Kashmir operates under a more established political system, featuring an elected government and parliamentary representation. In contrast, Pakistan-Administered Kashmir, despite having its own elected government and legislative assembly, remains heavily influenced by Islamabad, especially in foreign policy and defence matters.
The political structure of Pakistan-Administered Kashmir is semi-autonomous. The region boasts its own government, led by a prime minister and supported by a legislative assembly. Despite this, the federal government in Islamabad holds considerable sway over AJK’s affairs.
This influence is particularly evident in critical areas such as foreign policy and defence. The unique constitutional status of AJK includes its own President and a council that advises the Pakistani Prime Minister on regional issues.
In the aftermath of the abrogation of Article 370 in Indian-Administered Kashmir in 2019, concerns have emerged about the potential assimilation of Pakistan-Administered Kashmir into Pakistan. However, the ongoing unrest is primarily driven by economic grievances and local political demands rather than fears of assimilation or annexation.
Legally, Pakistan-Administered Kashmir occupies a unique and complex position. It is not fully integrated into Pakistan, nor is it recognized as a sovereign state. While AJK operates with a degree of autonomy, having its own government and political institutions, the federal government in Islamabad retains significant control over its affairs. The region’s legal status remains disputed, with India claiming the entire territory as its own.
As the unrest in Pakistan-Administered Kashmir unfolds, it is clear that economic reforms and addressing the grievances of the local population are crucial. Without significant changes, the region’s stability remains in jeopardy, potentially exacerbating tensions both locally and with neighbouring India. Pakistan’s government must heed the calls for economic relief and political fairness to restore peace and ensure the well-being of the people in AJK.
*The writer is the General Secretary Human Rights Wing of the Pakistan People’s Party (PPP)
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