Bilawal demands end to AJK sit-ins, proposes overhaul of refugee seats system

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari on Thursday called for an immediate end to ongoing protests and sit-ins across Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK), urging demonstrators to shift their demands into the political arena.

Speaking in the National Assembly on the political situation in AJK ahead of regional elections, Bilawal proposed a major overhaul of the territory’s “refugee seats” system, saying it had become a source of political controversy.

He alleged that the quota system had previously been manipulated to benefit certain political actors.

The 12 refugee seats are voted on by Kashmiri refugees living in different parts of Pakistan and have long been criticised by some parties for influencing AJK’s internal political balance.

Bilawal suggested replacing the current arrangement with a proportional representation model, under which refugee seats would be allocated to political parties in line with their performance in the AJK Legislative Assembly.

He said constitutional and electoral matters could not be decided through street protests or pressure tactics, adding that such issues should be resolved through proper institutional forums.

“Decisions regarding seats in AJK or any other province must happen at the proper constitutional forums,” he said.

Referring to ongoing strikes and civil unrest in AJK, Bilawal said continued agitation was harming governance in the region and urged protesters to end sit-ins.

“How will Azad Kashmir function if there are protests every single day?” he said, adding that the government had already addressed several initial demands through dialogue.

He warned that those involved in unlawful activities should face legal action, while indicating that administrative measures could be reviewed if calm was restored.

“Protesters must dismantle their camps unconditionally,” he said.

Bilawal said the PPP would fully contest upcoming AJK elections and aimed for a strong mandate, citing past performance in Gilgit-Baltistan.

He also called for a broader national debate on enhancing constitutional and political rights for AJK residents pending a UN-sponsored plebiscite.

As a temporary measure, he suggested increased international advocacy and greater representation for Kashmiris in Pakistani political forums.

Bilawal warned of emerging regional tensions following the Iran–US diplomatic developments, saying hostile elements could attempt to destabilise Pakistan and undermine the Kashmir cause.

“The entire country is fully prepared to confront Modi’s conspiracies,” he said.