Pak-AJK Evolving Relations

Saleem Raza

Bradford: This article comes from a place of pain, pride, and purpose , a heartfelt call grounded in history, sacrifice, and today’s political realities.

I write as the son of a freedom fighter, and as someone shaped by the grief and pride carried in every Kashmiri village, where graves, shrines, and streets still bear the name of Kashmir and its long struggle.

From the first war of 1947–48 to today, the connection between Kashmir’s freedom movement and Pakistan’s support has remained strong and undeniable.

Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) exists today because of the efforts of local fighters, Pakistani volunteers, and military backing. Ignoring or rewriting this history would dishonour the sacrifices of thousands who gave their lives.

The numbers speak clearly: AJK’s annual budget is around 310 billion rupees. Of this, only 111 billion comes from local revenue , the remaining 199 billion is funded by the federal government of Pakistan.

This is not just emotional support; it’s concrete, long-standing commitment.

In recent years, especially among diaspora communities, we’ve seen worrying trends, harsh words aimed at Pakistan, its institutions, and sometimes even Islam.

While frustration is understandable, especially in moments of pain, such language damages the unity and trust that have held us together through decades of struggle.

The freedom movement for Kashmir has never been the work of Kashmiris alone. Families across Pakistan, from Punjab to Karachi , have lost sons and supported the cause with their hearts, their homes, and their blood.

To speak carelessly against Pakistan or its institutions is not just unfair, it undermines everything we’ve built together.

We must distinguish between rightful criticism and divisive rhetoric. Emotionally charged social media posts, misinformation, or hate-filled narratives do not strengthen our cause, instead, they weaken it.

Now, more than ever, our language must be careful, respectful, and strategic.

Kashmir is now divided among three powers: India, Pakistan, and China , all of them nuclear states with complex geopolitical interests. This is not a simple or emotional issue; it’s a deeply strategic one.

Those who believe the world will simply hand over independence are ignoring global realities. That doesn’t mean we give up the dream , but it does mean we need a smarter, united, and long-term strategy.

We need to choose our friends and enemies carefully. Pakistan is a friend not an enemy. This does not mean that we should not offer constructive criticism of its approach on the Kashmir issue but our language tone needs to be of a friend.

Here’s the way forward:

Strengthen Unity Across All Regions

Kashmiris under Indian, Pakistani, and Chinese control must find ways to speak with one voice through shared goals, joint representation, and respectful cooperation.

Reject Divisive Rhetoric

Anti-Pakistan or anti-military language must have no place in our movement. The focus should remain on justice, not blame.

Build Strong, Accountable Institutions

Kashmiris must invest in education, transparent governance, and political leadership that earns international respect.

Focus the Diaspora on Diplomacy, Not Reaction

Kashmiris and Pakistanis abroad, in the UK, Europe, the US , must create professional platforms for diplomacy, human rights advocacy, and media engagement. Social media outrage is no substitute for real political work.

Promote Peace, Not Conflict

Internal fights only help our enemies. Instead, we must gather evidence, build legal cases, and take them to global human rights forums. Dialogue must always come before confrontation.

Let us protect this bond , rooted in history, sealed with sacrifice, and essential to our future. The enemies of peace rejoice when we turn on each other. Let’s not give them that satisfaction.

These are challenging times, but with wisdom, unity, and serious political effort, a just and peaceful future is possible.

May Allah guide us, bring peace to our lands, and grant the people of Kashmir the freedom, dignity, and future they deserve.

The author, a Pakistan-born creative based in Bradford, UK, is a versatile talent celebrated as a designer, artist, and poet. They hold a postgraduate degree in fashion design from London, showcasing their expertise in both artistic and academic pursuits.

All information and facts provided are the sole responsibility of the writer.

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