The question of Azad Kashmir can and must be addressed through political leadership. It is the duty of elected representatives to step forward, shoulder their responsibilities, and seek solutions through dialogue rather than confrontation. In this context, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s decision to constitute a high-level negotiation committee comprising senior leaders of the Pakistan Muslim League (Nawaz) and the Pakistan People’s Party is both timely and wise. It reflects not only democratic maturity but also a deep commitment to the aspirations of the Kashmiri people.

Shehbaz Sharif has shown before that the concerns of Azad Kashmir are close to his heart. Earlier, he announced a special relief package of 23 billion rupees for the region, providing vital economic support. More recently, he took immediate notice of the unfolding situation, ordered impartial investigations into the unfortunate incidents, directed urgent aid for the affected families, and prioritized dialogue as the path forward. These steps demonstrate his empathy and his resolve to address Kashmiri grievances with seriousness and sincerity.

The inclusion of prominent figures such as Senator Rana Sanaullah, federal ministers Sardar Yousaf and Ahsan Iqbal, former AJK president Masood Khan, and PPP stalwart Qamar Zaman Kaira in the committee highlights the government’s recognition that political issues must be resolved by seasoned political actors. It is also worth noting that previously, federal ministers Amir Muqam and Dr. Tariq Fazal Chaudhry were sent to Muzaffarabad to hold talks, during........

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