AJK Assembly Adopts Resolutions Calling For Independent Truth Commission

AJK Assembly Adopts Resolutions Calling For Independent Truth Commission

The proposal centers on creating an independent, impartial, and suitably empowered institutional mechanism to address the crisis noted The Express Tribune. Under the framework outlined in the resolution, the structure, powers, terms of reference, scope, and procedures of the commission are to be finalized jointly in writing by the federal government and representatives of the protest leadership. Once endorsed, the Azad Jammu and Kashmir government is expected to establish the commission under applicable law without delay.

Investigation Scope And Proceedings

Authorities stated that the inquiry will proceed without any predetermined conclusions, granting every affected family and relevant party an opportunity to present evidence and testimony. The proposed body is slated to review all aspects of the recent crisis, including evidence related to deaths, injuries, property losses, and allegations of violence or the weapon use.

To conduct its work, the commission will have access to official records such as government documents, police reports, forensic materials, communication records, videos, and witness statements. Sensitive information concerning national security or witness protection may be reviewed through confidential proceedings, and the final report is expected to be made public subject to legal restrictions. Furthermore, the commission may recommend humanitarian relief, victim compensation, institutional reforms, legal proceedings, and measures to prevent similar incidents from recurring.

De-Escalation And Normalization Measures

The assembly’s resolution was accompanied by calls for an immediate end to protests and simultaneous regional de-escalation. Lawmakers urged the government to restore normal life by reopening roads, ensuring medical and emergency access, maintaining uninterrupted supplies of essential goods, and restoring communication networks alongside mobile and internet services.

Under the proposed terms, protesting parties would commit to halting demonstrations until the commission completes its work. Meanwhile, the governments of Azad Jammu and Kashmir and Pakistan would pause further action related to the crisis during the inquiry, except where lawful intervention is necessary to address specific and imminent threats to life or public safety. The House also appealed to citizens, political workers, traders, and youth to distance themselves from violent elements, emphasizing that responsibility for unlawful acts should be determined individually through due legal process rather than collective blame.

Legislative Proceedings And Debate

During the assembly session, proceedings involved debate over the resolution and related regional matters. The Express Tribune noted that the only Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz member in attendance did not vote for the resolution and attempted to disrupt its passage by calling a quorum.

In a separate action, the assembly unanimously adopted resolutions condemning India’s August 5, 2019 decision to revoke the special constitutional status of Indian-administered Kashmir, reaffirming support for the right to self-determination in line with United Nations Security Council resolutions according to the Associated Press Of Pakistan. Lawmakers also discussed telecommunications issues, paid tribute to security personnel who lost their lives on duty, and acknowledged the suffering of civilians affected by the unrest.