MUZAFFARABAD (Kashmir English): Former Minister for Tourism and Transport of Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK), Muhammad Tahir Khokhar, has demanded the state government resolve pressing issues being faced by the Kashmiri refugees. He maintained that no obstacle should be placed in their way for their settlement.
Speaking on the challenges faced by Kashmiri refugees, Khokhar said that they are the heirs of martyrs who sacrificed their homes, properties, and land for the completion of Pakistan and the freedom of Kashmir. He expressed deep regret that instead of facilitating their rehabilitation, the relevant institutions are making their lives difficult.
Khokhar said that Kashmiri refugees have made the most gigantic sacrifices for the Kashmir freedom movement. He said that people who once owned hundreds of kanals of land are now being humiliated and are fighting for a five-marla plot. He termed this situation as sheer injustice.
He emphasised the sacrifices made for the independence of Pakistan and Kashmir and urged the government to address the problems of the Kashmiri exiles. He called for an end to injustices against them and requested a fair distribution of land to help them become self-sufficient.
He further mentioned that these refugees left everything for a greater cause and now deserve fair treatment. Instead of undergoing bureaucratic hurdles, they should be supported in rebuilding their lives.
Khokhar demanded the Azad Kashmir government immediately put an end to all types of injustice being meted out to the refugees of Kashmir and provide them with suitable land for their occupation. He added that if at least 50 to 100 kanals of land were allocated to each refugee family, they would not only be self-sufficient but would also contribute much towards the region’s agricultural requirements. They could, therefore, work in agriculture to sustain their lives.
He stressed that if the government is genuinely committed to the freedom of Kashmir, then the welfare of refugees must be a top priority. He reaffirmed his unwavering support for Kashmiri refugees and vowed to continue raising his voice for their rights on every platform.
We cannot forget the sacrifices of these courageous people who have left their homes, properties, and loved ones behind for the sake of Kashmir’s freedom. Injustice to them must be put to an end,” he concluded.
