Aamir Muqam invites Rawalakot sit-in leaders for d…
ISLAMABAD: Federal Minister for Kashmir Affairs and Gilgit-Baltistan Aamir Muqam has extended an offer of dialogue to protesters staging a sit-in in Rawalakot, urging demonstrators to engage in peaceful negotiations while distancing the federal government from recent controversial remarks about the region.
Speaking during a televised interview, Muqam said the people of Rawalakot have always been, and will continue to remain, Kashmiris, emphasizing their historical identity and longstanding contributions to Pakistan.
“The people of Rawalakot are Kashmiris, have always been Kashmiris, and will remain Kashmiris,” the minister said, stressing that the government values the sacrifices made by the residents of Poonch and other parts of Azad Jammu and Kashmir.
His remarks came amid growing political tensions following comments attributed to Defence Minister Khawaja Asif, which sparked criticism and prompted strong reactions from political leaders and residents in the region.
Muqam clarified that Khawaja Asif’s statement reflected his personal opinion and should not be interpreted as the official position of either the federal government or the ruling party.
“The statement does not represent government policy,” he said, adding that the people of Rawalakot had rendered immense sacrifices for Pakistan during critical periods of history and deserved respect and recognition.
Addressing the ongoing sit-in, the minister appealed to protesters to choose dialogue over confrontation. He said the government believes the majority of those participating in the demonstration are patriotic citizens with genuine concerns rather than individuals pursuing unlawful objectives.
“I do not consider everyone at the sit-in to be terrorists,” Muqam said. “Most participants are loyal Pakistanis. They should distance themselves from elements with negative agendas and come forward for meaningful talks.”
The minister reiterated the government’s willingness to resolve issues through negotiations, saying constructive engagement remained the most effective path toward restoring calm and addressing public grievances.
His appeal comes as authorities continue to monitor the evolving situation in Rawalakot, where demonstrations have drawn national attention amid heightened political debate and security concerns.
Political observers believe Muqam’s conciliatory tone signals an effort by the federal government to ease tensions and prevent further escalation through dialogue rather than confrontation. His reassurance regarding the identity and sacrifices of the people of Rawalakot is also being viewed as an attempt to rebuild trust following the controversy surrounding recent public statements.
The government’s next steps, including any formal negotiations with protest representatives, are expected to shape developments in the coming days as officials seek a peaceful resolution to the standoff.
