National Assembly Debates Controversy Over Defence Minister’s Remarks on Kashmiris

The Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) expressed strong opposition in the National Assembly on Wednesday regarding “sweeping statements” made by Defence Minister Khawaja Asif concerning the residents of Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK).

During a televised interview, the minister remarked that Rawalakot—currently experiencing protests led by the Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC)—is “not Kashmir” and stated he did not classify the inhabitants of that area as Kashmiris.

Following the backlash, Asif clarified his stance on X (formerly Twitter), stating that “Kashmiriat is defined by the sacrifices and struggles waged over almost eight decades by Pakistanis, including Kashmiris and all others, not by birth certificates.”

Addressing the House, PPP leader Raja Pervaiz Ashraf argued that such generalizations are unacceptable, particularly from a senior government official. He noted that the remarks had caused significant offense and cautioned that AJK is a highly sensitive region requiring diplomatic sensitivity. Ashraf emphasized that instead of inflaming tensions, the government should focus on resolving the grievances of the Kashmiri people, acknowledging the administration’s efforts to stabilize the region.

While Asif defended his remarks as a philosophical argument regarding identity rather than birthright, PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari criticized the fallout. Bilawal noted that while Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif is working to foster positive engagement with both coalition partners and the opposition to stabilize the nation, certain ministers are hindering this progress.

Bilawal questioned the decision to retain the minister in the federal cabinet following such comments, asking how the government could justify the remarks of a high-ranking official. He argued that the statement acted as a catalyst for the ongoing unrest in AJK rather than helping to settle the issue.

As a coalition partner, Bilawal suggested providing space to Maulana Fazlur Rehman to mediate the conflict between the federal and AJK governments. He advocated for a political resolution through dialogue with protesters to prevent recurring instability and stressed that the Prime Minister must have the authority to ensure his cabinet follows a unified policy.

Meanwhile, Adviser to the Prime Minister on Political Affairs, Rana Sanaullah, addressed the unrest in AJK. He characterized the JAAC protests as an attempt to disrupt the upcoming July elections. Sanaullah maintained that the status of the 12 refugee seats is a matter for the AJK Legislative Assembly and should be resolved through legislative debate rather than demonstrations.

Sanaullah also criticized the conduct of the protesters, noting that one of their demands involves altering the nomination oath regarding Kashmir’s struggle for freedom. He urged the JAAC to withdraw its demands and engage in formal dialogue with the Prime Minister or the AJK leadership.

Asif Urges Opposition to Prioritize Political Stability

In a separate exchange, Defence Minister Khawaja Asif challenged the opposition to reflect on their own political history before criticizing the current administration. He suggested that the opposition should consider signing a Charter of Democracy to foster a more stable political environment.

Responding to harsh criticism from opposition leader Mehmood Khan Achakzai, Asif invoked the principle of “clean hands,” questioning the opposition’s right to demand equity given their own past conduct in power. He urged the House to remember the political instability of previous eras and called for a code of conduct that maintains dignity between the ruling party and the opposition.

Asif highlighted the evolution of the current coalition, noting that the PPP and PML-N have moved past historical grievances to work together for the country’s stability. He contrasted this with the previous PTI administration, criticizing the manner in which legislation was passed and the assembly was dissolved.

Concluding his remarks, Asif noted that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s willingness to engage directly with the opposition marks a shift toward civil political culture. He lamented the damage he believes the PTI leadership inflicted on Pakistan’s parliamentary system and democratic institutions, calling for a return to political maturity.

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