ISLAMABAD:(PNP) Muslim Conference’s nominated candidate for Poonch Constituency-III in Azad Jammu and Kashmir, Dr. Irfan Ashraf, has alleged that the political environment in Rawalakot is being deliberately destabilized and that certain elements are using the platform of the Awami Action Committee for political purposes.
Addressing a press conference at the National Press Club Islamabad alongside party leaders and workers, Dr. Ashraf claimed that he and his associates were attacked near Burma Bridge while traveling to Rawalakot on the night between June 5 and 6. According to him, unidentified assailants pelted stones at their vehicle, opened fire, and attempted to harm them. He said they narrowly escaped and managed to return safely to their village.
Dr. Ashraf alleged that former President and Prime Minister of Azad Kashmir Sardar Yaqoob Khan was playing a direct role in the prevailing situation and accused his supporters of creating an atmosphere of hostility and confrontation in the region. He further claimed that his party workers had received threats of violence, including warnings against their families and property, while a coordinated campaign was also being conducted against them on social media.
The Muslim Conference leader reiterated that his party supports democratic struggle and the protection of public rights but said that violence, armed activity, and targeting political opponents under the banner of any movement were unacceptable.
He urged the leadership of the Awami Action Committee to publicly distance itself from armed elements and those allegedly inciting violence if the movement is genuinely committed to peaceful and democratic objectives. He also appealed to the committee’s leaders, particularly Umar Nazeer Kashmiri, to identify and isolate individuals who, according to him, were damaging the credibility of the movement.
Dr. Ashraf expressed concern over road blockades in Rawalakot and surrounding areas, claiming that they had disrupted access to healthcare, medicines, and essential supplies, causing difficulties for local residents.
He called on Chairman Pakistan Peoples Party Bilawal Bhutto Zardari and President Asif Ali Zardari to take notice of the situation in Azad Kashmir and hold accountable any party-affiliated individuals allegedly contributing to political unrest.
Highlighting development issues, Dr. Ashraf said the people of his constituency had long been deprived of basic facilities, including healthcare, education, roads, electricity, and tourism-related infrastructure. He claimed that the Muslim Conference enjoys strong public support in the area and alleged that political opponents were resorting to pressure tactics due to fear of electoral defeat.
At the conclusion of the press conference, he demanded a transparent investigation into the alleged Burma Bridge attack, calling for legal action against those responsible under relevant laws, including anti-terrorism provisions where applicable. He also urged the federal government, law enforcement agencies, and the media to help ensure peace and stability in Azad Kashmir.
The allegations made during the press conference could not be independently verified, and no immediate response was available from the individuals and groups named by Dr. Ashraf.
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