ISLAMABAD:
Prime Minister of Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) Faisal Mumtaz Rathore has expressed serious concern over the worsening condition of Kashmiri prisoners detained in Indian jails, warning that their lives are under grave threat.
The prime minister made these remarks while speaking to Dr. Muhammad Mushtaq Khan, Ameer of Jamaat-e-Islami Azad Kashmir and Gilgit-Baltistan, who called on him here on Monday.
“The lives of Kashmiri leaders and pro-freedom activists, including Yasin Malik, who have been booked under draconian laws and left to languish in distant Indian prisons, are facing serious and imminent threats,” the prime minister said.
He strongly urged the international community and global human rights organizations to take immediate notice of the situation and play their due role in ensuring the safety and early release of the Kashmiri detainees.
Reaffirming his commitment to strengthening the ongoing liberation struggle in Indian-occupied Kashmir, the prime minister said his government was simultaneously accelerating efforts to resolve public issues in Azad Kashmir.
He acknowledged the historic and significant role of Jamaat-e-Islami in the Kashmir freedom movement and reiterated that the freedom of Kashmir and resolution of public issues remain top priorities of his government. He also expressed his desire to visit the central office of Jamaat-e-Islami in the near future.
On the occasion, Dr. Muhammad Mushtaq Khan congratulated the prime minister on assuming office and conveyed his best wishes. He highlighted the importance of Azad Kashmir as the base camp of the Kashmir freedom movement, stressing that peace and stability in the liberated territory were essential to strengthen the struggle.
Dr. Khan called for the early completion of the Public Service Commission to provide employment opportunities to unemployed youth on merit. He also urged the immediate appointment of the Election Commission to ensure a transparent and credible electoral process.
Additionally, he demanded the prompt resolution of issues related to the Jhelum Valley University campus. Welcoming the government’s announcement regarding the restoration of student unions, Dr. Khan called for the immediate announcement of a schedule for student union elections.
He said that Jamaat-e-Islami has consistently supported positive initiatives and raised public issues in a timely and constructive manner. The Jamaat leader also invited the prime minister to visit the Jhelum Valley constituency.
Deputy Secretary General Jamaat-e-Islami Azad Kashmir Jameel Rathore and Sahibzada Younis were also present during the meeting.
