Muzaffarabad: The All Parties Conference (APC) in Muzaffarabad has officially rejected the legitimacy of the recent elections held in Indian-occupied Jammu and Kashmir, describing them as a strategic maneuver by the Modi-led government to divert global attention from ongoing human rights abuses in the region.
According to Kashmir Media Service, the APC, chaired by the Prime Minister of Azad Jammu and Kashmir, passed a resolution stating that the elections do not replace the Kashmiri people’s right to self-determination. The leaders called on India to permit Kashmiris the freedom to determine their own future without external influence.
The declaration from the conference also paid homage to the resilience of the residents of occupied Jammu and Kashmir, who continue to resist Indian oppression and maintain their struggle for freedom. Special commendations were extended to the All Parties Hurriyat Conference and the youth of Kashmir, who persist in their resistance despite facing severe repression from Indian forces.
The conference also addressed broader geopolitical issues, expressing solidarity with the people of Palestine and condemning Israeli military aggression. The APC called for urgent interventions by both the United Nations and the Organization of Islamic Cooperation to halt the ongoing violence against Palestinians.
Further, the declaration condemned efforts by India to destabilize Azad Jammu and Kashmir and lauded the Pakistani armed forces for their role in defending the Line of Control. The contributions of the Pakistani military were highlighted as crucial in safeguarding the region, contrasting sharply with the actions of Indian forces, which the leaders accused of committing new atrocities against the Kashmiri population.
The APC also expressed gratitude towards the government and people of Pakistan for their continued support to Azad Jammu and Kashmir, especially in light of Pakistan’s own economic difficulties. Appreciation was expressed for the efforts of Pakistan’s President, Prime Minister, Army Chief, and national security agencies.
The leaders pledged to continue promoting national unity and development within Azad Jammu and Kashmir and to resist any divisive or violent influences. They called upon all political groups in the region to participate in the democratic process in accordance with the Constitution of Azad Kashmir.
The conference culminated with a call to the international community to enforce UN Security Council resolutions regarding Kashmir and highlighted the resolution of the Kashmir issue as vital for regional peace and stability.