AJK Assembly seeks Truth Commission over unrest

The Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) Legislative Assembly has unanimously passed a resolution calling for the formation of an independent Truth Commission to investigate the recent unrest that claimed several lives and left many others injured.

The proposed commission will examine the causes of the violence, investigate all reported deaths, injuries and property damage, and recommend measures to provide relief to victims and prevent similar incidents in the future.

The move comes after violent clashes between law enforcement personnel and protesters in Rawalakot, where both security officials and demonstrators reported casualties. The unrest sparked widespread concern and renewed calls for an impartial investigation.

According to the resolution, the Truth Commission will function as an independent and impartial body. Its structure, powers and terms of reference will be finalised jointly by the federal government and representatives of the protest leadership before being formally established under AJK law.

The commission will be tasked with reviewing all aspects of the recent crisis. It will examine evidence related to deaths, injuries, property losses and allegations of violence. Authorities said the inquiry will be conducted without any predetermined conclusions, ensuring that every affected family and relevant party has an opportunity to present evidence and testimony.

The proposed body will have access to official records, including government documents, police reports, forensic material, communication records, videos and witness statements. Sensitive information involving national security or witness protection may be reviewed through confidential proceedings.

The Assembly clarified that the commission will not determine criminal guilt or hand down punishments. Instead, if evidence suggests legal violations, the matter will be referred to the relevant investigative or judicial authorities for further action. Individuals or institutions facing adverse findings will also be given an opportunity to respond before any conclusions are reached.

The commission will submit interim and final reports within an agreed timeframe. Its final report is expected to be made public, subject to legal restrictions concerning national security and witness safety. It may also recommend compensation for victims, institutional reforms, legal action where necessary and measures to prevent future unrest.

The resolution also called for immediate de-escalation of tensions across the region. It urged the government to restore normal life by reopening roads, ensuring medical and emergency services, improving communication networks and maintaining the uninterrupted supply of essential goods.

At the same time, protest organisers were urged to suspend demonstrations until the commission completes its work. The governments of AJK and Pakistan were also asked to avoid further actions linked to the crisis during the inquiry, except where immediate measures are required to protect public safety.

The Assembly reaffirmed its commitment to democratic values, constitutional governance and the rule of law. It stressed that peaceful protest, freedom of expression and the right to raise political, economic and social demands are guaranteed under democratic principles. However, it strongly rejected violence, vandalism, the use of weapons and attempts to challenge state authority through force.

Lawmakers paid tribute to security personnel, police officials and civilians who lost their lives during the unrest. They expressed sympathy with all affected families and stressed that every victim deserves justice, humanitarian assistance and equal treatment under the law.

The House also appealed to citizens, political workers, traders and youth to distance themselves from violent elements. It emphasised that responsibility for any unlawful acts should be determined individually through evidence and due legal process rather than collective blame.