ISLAMABAD: Jammu Kashmir Peoples Party parliamentary leader Sardar Hassan Ibrahim has said that the July 19, 1947, resolution for accession to Pakistan remains the foundation of the Kashmir struggle and has gained added importance in the present circumstances.
Addressing media representatives at the National Press Club Islamabad along with central leaders of his party, Sardar Hassan Ibrahim presented what he described as the historical facts of the July 19, 1947, Resolution of Accession to Pakistan in the context of the current situation.
He said that even before the creation of Pakistan, the brave people of Poonch, under the leadership of Sardar Ibrahim, had decided that the State of Jammu and Kashmir should accede to Pakistan. He said a resolution to this effect was passed in Srinagar on July 19, 1947.
Sardar Hassan Ibrahim said that despite the Dogra rule and Indian aggression, the movement launched on the basis of that resolution continues in Jammu and Kashmir to this day. He maintained that it was the outcome of the July 19 resolution that Azad Kashmir exists today.
He further said that the same Resolution of Accession to Pakistan forms the basis of the United Nations resolutions on plebiscite, as well as the continuing struggle in occupied Jammu and Kashmir. He said the people of Kashmir have kept this movement alive despite all challenges.
He said it was necessary to remember this day, adding that, in the present era, the importance of the resolution had increased further. He alleged that certain misguided and mischievous elements were trying to divert the people of Azad Kashmir from the right path.
Replying to questions from the media, Sardar Hassan Ibrahim said there were undoubtedly many problems in Azad Kashmir which could be resolved. However, he said the innocent people of Kashmir were unaware of what he called the “nefarious designs” of the Awami Action Committee, while roads and markets in Kashmir had been closed.
He appealed to the public to show patience, tolerance and understanding, and said his party was ready to work with them for the solution of their problems.
Referring to Rawalakot, he said the area was practically shut down and, therefore, a conducive environment did not exist for candidates to participate in the election. He urged the Election Commission to consider the situation and, at least to the extent of Rawalakot, provide candidates suitable time for election preparations so that a fair election could be held.
In response to a question regarding the seats of migrants, Sardar Hassan Ibrahim said whether the seats were 12, six, or any other alternative solution was considered, the decision should be left to the incoming Legislative Assembly. He said it was a constitutional matter and should be resolved in a proper manner.
He said his party had always continued the struggle for joining Pakistan and that they remained proud of Pakistan.
Recalling an incident involving Sardar Khalid Ibrahim, he said there was a time when he was told that he would have to give up his Pakistan address to contest an election. Sardar Hassan Ibrahim said Khalid Ibrahim had responded that whether he was allowed to contest the election or not, he would not abandon his Pakistan address.
“We still say that the hearts of the people of Kashmir are linked with Pakistan,” he said, adding: “Pakistan Zindabad, Kashmir Paindabad.”
