Prime Minister of Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK), Chaudhry Anwar-ul-Haq, while addressing the central ceremony marking the 78th Foundation Day of AJK, said that the region has made significant progress since 1947, evolving from one of the most underdeveloped areas to a region witnessing development in various sectors.
Speaking at the event in Muzaffarabad, the AJK Prime Minister said that the situation of civil liberties in Azad Kashmir is “exemplary,” claiming that there are no political prisoners in the region and that AJK has a functioning and independent judicial system.
He paid tribute to the armed forces of Pakistan, stating that the freedom and security of Azad Kashmir were ensured through sacrifices made by tribesmen, local fighters, and the Pakistan Army. He said the day was “a moment to pay salute to the Pakistan Army” for protecting the region’s freedom.
Referring to recent military operations, he said what he described as Operation Banyan-ul-Marsous and Ma’rakah-e-Haq were significant in Pakistan’s security landscape. He credited the Pakistan Army leadership for what he called “victories in defense of the country.” The Prime Minister attributed these achievements to what he referred to as the leadership qualities of the current Chief of Army Staff, General Asim Munir. (The titles and assessments were remarks made by the Prime Minister during his speech.)
The AJK Prime Minister also reiterated support for the people of Indian-administered Jammu and Kashmir, stating that despite “oppression and demographic changes,” the people remain committed to the struggle for freedom. He thanked the Government of Pakistan for raising the issue at international forums.
Chaudhry Anwar-ul-Haq said that the establishment of the AJK government was aimed at advancing the freedom struggle of the people of Jammu and Kashmir. He paid tribute to those who lost their lives in the historical and ongoing struggle, including the victims of events in 1931 and 1947, noting that these sacrifices laid the foundation for resistance against Dogra and later Indian rule.
He expressed hope that the people of Indian-administered Kashmir would one day achieve what he called their “right to freedom,” adding, “We will collectively work for the realization of Pakistan’s ideological completeness.”
The ceremony was attended by government officials, political representatives, and members of civil society.
