Kashmiri refugees urge Pakistan to retain 12 reserved seats in Azad Kashmir Assembly
Refugee representatives call for the protection of voting rights, political representation and the preservation of their identity ahead of Azad Jammu and Kashmir elections.
Kashmiri refugee representatives call for the protection of their reserved seats in the Azad Kashmir Assembly.
Reserved Seats for refugees from Jammu and Kashmir should remain intact to safeguard their constitutional representation and political rights, refugee representatives said during discussions surrounding the upcoming Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) general elections.
The refugees reaffirmed their commitment to exercising their right to vote and stressed that preserving their political representation is essential to protecting their identity, culture and historical connection with the Kashmir cause.
Call to preserve political representation
Representatives of Jammu and Kashmir refugees living in Pakistan-administered Azad Kashmir said their forefathers migrated in support of the Kashmir movement and the creation of Pakistan. They said their right to vote and political participation reflects that historic commitment.
They urged the Government of Pakistan to continue allocating 12 reserved seats for refugee representatives in the Azad Kashmir Legislative Assembly, describing the arrangement as essential for ensuring their continued representation.
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Commitment to the Kashmir cause
The refugees said their identity, political representation and commitment to Pakistan remain inseparable. They also expressed hope that people in Indian-administered Jammu and Kashmir would one day be able to exercise their democratic rights.
They maintained that Pakistan has helped preserve the identity, culture and heritage of Kashmiri refugees while extending continued political and humanitarian support.
Appreciation for Pakistan’s support
The refugee representatives thanked the Government and people of Pakistan for their longstanding support, saying Pakistan has consistently stood by the people of Kashmir during difficult times.
They reiterated their demand that the 12 reserved seats remain unchanged to ensure future generations of refugees continue to have political representation and a voice in the legislative process.
