By; Samina Mustafa Mughal
Tensions in Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) are reaching a critical point, as a coalition of civil society organizations, bolstered by support from various political parties, has orchestrated yet another widespread and effective strike. The strike comes in response to a contentious presidential ordinance that seeks to regulate public gatherings through punitive measures. The ordinance, signed into law last month by AJK President Barrister Sultan Mehmood, introduces severe penalties for what it defines as ‘illegal’ public assemblies, rallies, and protests. It has drawn sharp comparisons to the federal government’s Public Order and Peaceful Assembly Act of 2024, enacted in Islamabad, which similarly grants sweeping authority to administrative officials to approve or deny public gatherings and imposes harsh punishments for violations.
The ordinance has sparked widespread public outrage in AJK, as evidenced by the overwhelming support for the strike call. This occurred despite a recent injunction by the AJK Supreme Court that temporarily suspended the ordinance just two days earlier. Businesses and daily activities came to a halt as the public ignored repeated calls from the territorial government to maintain normalcy. The turnout and solidarity displayed during the strike reflect a deep-rooted concern among the people of AJK about perceived attempts to curb their civil liberties.
Organizers of the strike, led by the Jammu & Kashmir Joint Awami Action Committee, have been vocal in their opposition to the ordinance. One coalition member stated, “This is not just about opposing a law; it is about defending the fundamental rights of every citizen in AJK. The ordinance undermines our democratic freedoms, and this peaceful strike is a clear and powerful statement of our commitment to preserving those rights.” The coalition has demanded the complete repeal of the ordinance, dismissing the temporary suspension as insufficient.
This latest protest is part of a broader pattern of public resistance in AJK. Earlier this year, the same coalition spearheaded mass demonstrations that compelled the territorial government to bow to public pressure and fulfill their demands. The repeated success of such movements underscores the growing resolve among AJK’s citizens to safeguard their rights and resist any measures that they perceive as authoritarian or suppressive.
The implications of these developments are significant. They highlight an increasing disconnect between the government’s actions and the public’s expectations, raising concerns about governance and public trust in the region. The government’s approach to imposing restrictive laws has triggered a strong backlash, reflecting the heightened sensitivity of the AJK populace to any perceived encroachments on their freedoms.
Given the volatile situation, decision-makers must exercise extreme caution. Heavy-handed tactics or attempts to enforce controversial policies without addressing public concerns could further alienate the people and lead to prolonged unrest. A more prudent approach would involve open dialogue, transparent communication, and sincere efforts to address the grievances of the people of AJK.
The ongoing resistance also serves as a reminder of the resilience and unity of the people of AJK in defending their rights. Policymakers would be well-advised to respect these sentiments and work toward solutions that uphold democratic principles while maintaining order. The situation in AJK is a stark indicator of the challenges that arise when governance disregards the will of the people, and it underscores the need for careful, inclusive, and empathetic leadership in addressing such sensitive issues.
