AJK resolution seeks truth commission

LA calls for independent inquiry into violence

MUZAFFARABAD:

The AJK Legislative Assembly on Thursday passed a resolution calling for the establishment of an independent truth commission to investigate the recent unrest, examine all deaths, injuries and property losses, and recommend relief and reforms.

Announcing the development on X, PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari said the resolution sought to "end the ongoing crisis and provide immediate relief to the people of Kashmir".

"It is unfortunate that on such an important occasion the only PML-N MLA in attendance not only did not vote for the resolution but instead attempted to disrupt its passage through protests and calling quorum," he added.

The resolution was centred around the proposal to establish an "independent, impartial and suitably empowered" truth commission as an institutional mechanism for the peaceful and lasting resolution of the present crisis.

Under the proposal, the federal government and representatives of the protest leadership would jointly endorse the commission's composition, terms of reference, scope, and procedure in writing. Following this, the AJK government would establish the commission without delay under the applicable law.

The resolution said the commission would investigate the causes and consequences of the recent unrest, including all deaths, injuries, property losses and allegations relating to violence or the use of weapons, "without any predetermined conclusion". It added that every affected family and every relevant party would be given a fair opportunity to present their account and evidence.

According to the resolution, the commission would be granted access to all relevant official records, including government documents, FIRs, videos, forensic evidence, weapons, communications and witness testimony. It also stated that sensitive material concerning national security, privacy or witness protection could be examined through confidential or in-camera proceedings where necessary.

The resolution made clear that the commission would not determine criminal guilt or innocence, nor impose punishment. Where its findings warranted further legal action, it could refer matters to the competent investigative, prosecutorial or judicial authorities. Before making any adverse finding against an individual or institution, the commission would be required to provide notice and a fair opportunity to respond.

It further proposed that the commission submit interim and final reports within agreed timelines. Subject to lawful protections relating to national security, privacy and witness safety, its final report would be made public. The commission could also recommend humanitarian relief, compensation, institutional reforms, legal proceedings.

The assembly proposed that the joint endorsement of the commission should be accompanied by an immediate end to protests and simultaneous de-escalation. It said the AJK government should restore roads, emergency and medical access, essential supplies, communications, mobile and internet services, and normal civic and economic activity without delay.

It also proposed that protesting parties commit not to resume demonstrations until the commission completed its work, while the governments of AJK and Pakistan would pause further action related to the crisis during the inquiry, except where lawful action was required to address a specific and imminent threat to life or public safety.