Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-Fazl (JUI-F) chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman has revealed that the Public Action Committee contacted him officially via a letter regarding the ongoing crisis in Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK). Speaking during a session of the National Assembly, Fazlur Rehman stated that while the committee was expected to announce its next course of action today, it has not yet done so. He added that he forwarded their official letter to the government but has yet to receive a formal response.
The JUI-F chief emphasised that large numbers of people have gathered in Rawalakot and urged the government to initiate peaceful dialogue rather than resorting to force. He stressed the importance of carefully reviewing the committee’s Charter of Demand, asserting that state actions should not be driven by the emotional or provocative speeches of the protesters. He also welcomed the Public Action Committee’s recent decision to postpone their planned march towards Muzaffarabad, calling it a positive step.
Turning his attention to the federal cabinet, Fazlur Rehman criticised the recent tone set by Defence Minister Khawaja Asif, stating that his remarks were inappropriate for a minister and would only serve to increase regional provocation. He noted that the government has seemingly left the handling of the dispute to Khawaja Asif and Ishaq Dar. Warning the ruling coalition against backing the opposition into a corner, the JUI-F leader reminded the house of his party’s recent massive rally in Charsadda, challenging the government to match that level of public support. He concluded by calling for patience and tolerance, stating that if the government responds emotionally, it fails to fulfill its true role.
