Daily Diary (DD) - Day 246 of 2025

0311hrs:

This will have to be a regular time as if dear life itself depended on it, with now only 120 days to go in what should go down as a bullish year.

....

I witnessed a very concerning level of rain yesterday evening while driving from Nikyaal to Kotli. We must respect nature like never before. Foreign militaries of all colours should take note too.

....

The 3rd of September Public Statement 

(to the people of AJK in particular and JKA in general)

As a patriot of my motherland (Dharti Maa) I've worked pro bono (voluntarily conducted independent action-oriented public policy research in public interest - free of charge by devoting an average of 16 hours a day) for over 2 decades, for and with my fellow co-citizens, who are all equally entitled to determine their own future, as referenced by international law.

Even at this stage, over 99% of our population (inheritors of the hitherto autocratic State of Jammu & Kashmir pre 1947) are yet to understand the value of independent research: as witnessed by this devoted, focussed, un-interrupted and un-compromising patriot.

If this matter is not addressed by this referenced and documented population - in these 120 days before the end of this bullish year of 2025 - it will most likely be too late to address it ever again - given the practical barriers to self-determination - structured with the complicit approval of the 'international community' as many among this population perceive.       

It will also terminate this voluntary contract as a fellow Owner (Maalik) & Inheritor (Waaris) of the territory that 'I' (Tanveer Ahmed s/o Khan Muhammad Rafique) has operated in as 'we' - to fulfil conditions of public interest - in the shape of JKA PUBLIC AGENCY, have inclusively revised as Jammu Kashmir & Allied (areas) or JKA for short.   

#PopularSovereignty

#DirectDemocracy

JKA PUBLIC AGENCY Note: #E212803092025

....

Daily Diary (DD) - Day 16 of 2025

1856hrs:

I'm inputting today's diary almost 14 hours later than intended. My routine is haywire, despite which I'm still fulfilling all my daily duties, just not in the right time frame in a daily routine context.

....

Dr Nazir Gilani continues with his documentation activism and gives his prescription on demilitarisation:

Demilitarizing Kashmir: A Call for Peace, Dialogue, and Self-Determination

The recent remarks made by the Indian Army Chief during the 77th Army Day celebrations, where he accused Pakistan of orchestrating violence in Kashmir and emphasized the induction of 15,000 additional troops in 2024, have sparked significant reactions, particularly from Pakistan. While the situation in Kashmir is undeniably complex, it is important to address the issue within the broader historical context, international commitments, and the necessity for a peaceful resolution that prioritizes the rights and aspirations of the Kashmiri people.

1. Historical Context and UN Supervised Vote:

The Kashmir dispute is not merely a military issue but a deeply political and human rights issue rooted in the promises made at the time of India’s partition and the subsequent accession of Jammu and Kashmir to India. The Government of India (GOI) has committed itself to a UN-supervised plebiscite in Kashmir, as outlined in United Nations Security Council (UNSC) Resolution 47. The resolution calls for a fair and free process where the Kashmiri people can determine their future. This commitment was reaffirmed at the 230th meeting of the UNSC in 1948, which outlined the role of Indian forces in the region as supplementary and temporary, tasked only with ensuring law and order.

However, the ongoing militarization of the region—especially the recent induction of an additional 15,000 troops in 2024—directly undermines the spirit of these original agreements and international resolutions. The heavy military presence today stands in stark contrast to the intent of UNSC Resolution 47, which sought restraint in the appearance, number, and stationing of forces in the region to avoid exacerbating tensions and to promote a peaceful resolution.

2. Britain’s Acknowledgment of the Insurgency and Diverse Stakeholders:

During the 251st meeting of the UNSC, Britain acknowledged the continuation of the insurgency in Kashmir and pointed out that the conflict involves not just India and Pakistan but also six distinct interest groups within Kashmir itself. These groups—representing various political, social, and ethnic constituencies—have long been anchored in the belief that the UN-supervised plebiscite is the ultimate solution. Their expectations, based on international commitments, have shaped the political discourse surrounding the Kashmir issue for decades.

Thus, when India’s Army Chief labels Pakistan as the “epicentre of terrorism” it oversimplifies the situation and diverts attention from the core issue: the right of the Kashmiri people to determine their own future. While external actors may play a role, the primary concern is the political status of Kashmir and the aspirations of its people. The ongoing insurgency is rooted in both local grievances and the unresolved political status of the region, and framing the issue as a purely external one fails to address these complexities. The focus should be on resolving the issue through political means, respecting the wishes of the Kashmiri people, and honouring international commitments.

3. The Need for Demilitarization:

Demilitarization of Jammu and Kashmir is essential to creating an environment conducive to peace, dialogue, and reconciliation. The continuing induction of military forces, such as the 15,000 additional troops in 2024, only serves to escalate tensions, perpetuate human rights violations, and further alienate the Kashmiri people. The commitment to reducing the military footprint in the region is a crucial step toward restoring trust and creating conditions for a peaceful resolution.

India has made a specific commitment to reduce its military presence in the region. At the 608th meeting of the UNSC, India stated that the minimum necessary force to maintain order in Kashmir was 28,000. However, the Indian government also offered, in a significant gesture, that “on complete disbandment and disarmament of the Azad Kashmir forces, and as a further contribution towards a settlement, the GOI is prepared to effect a further reduction of 7,000 to a figure of 21,000, which is the absolute and irreducible minimum.” This force would be without any supporting arms, such as armour or artillery, as India emphasized the need to avoid further militarization of the region.

This offer of reduction should be seen as a positive step towards demilitarization, but it remains inadequate if the overall approach to Kashmir continues to prioritize military means over political solutions. There is no room for militarizing Kashmir further. The region cannot be resolved by force; it is the consent of the Kashmiri people and the promise of a UN-supervised plebiscite that must prevail. The military presence cannot replace the democratic rights of the Kashmiri people, and the way forward must involve reducing the military presence while promoting dialogue, self-determination, and peace.

4. The Role of the Kashmiri People and the UN Template:

The ultimate resolution of the Kashmir issue must centre around the will of the Kashmiri people, as guaranteed by the United Nations and the commitments made by both India and Pakistan at the UNSC in 1948. The heavy militarization of the region is at odds with the political and democratic aspirations of the Kashmiri people. The UN-supervised plebiscite remains the most legitimate path forward, one that respects the rights of Kashmiris to choose their future.

As highlighted in the State Autonomy Committee Report of June 2000, Jammu and Kashmir’s provisional accession was limited to three areas—defence, communications, and foreign affairs. These restrictions must guide the future governance of the region. Any solution that involves continued militarization and repression will only deepen the divide. The focus must shift to fulfilling international promises, especially the commitment to a UN-supervised plebiscite, and to ensuring that the political rights of the Kashmiri people are fully respected.

5. A Call for Peace and Political Dialogue:

India and Pakistan, along with the international community, must move beyond military posturing and engage in genuine dialogue aimed at achieving a political resolution that respects the rights and aspirations of the Kashmiri people. The Kashmir issue cannot be solved by military means; it requires a political settlement that recognizes the legitimacy of the Kashmiri people's demand for self-determination. India’s continued military presence in Kashmir must be reconsidered in light of international commitments, and the focus should be on reducing military forces while promoting a peace process that includes all stakeholders.

The path to peace in Kashmir lies in honouring the principles of self-determination and democratic governance. The UN-supervised plebiscite remains the only legitimate solution, and India must reaffirm its commitment to this process, ensuring that the military does not stand in the way of the political aspirations of the Kashmiri people.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, JKCHR advocates for the immediate demilitarization of Jammu and Kashmir, in line with the United Nations’ framework and the promises made by both India and Pakistan. India’s offer to reduce its military presence to 21,000 troops without supporting arms should be viewed as a step towards peace, but it is essential that this reduction be part of a broader political resolution that respects the aspirations of the Kashmiri people. The solution lies not in military control but in political dialogue and the implementation of a UN-supervised plebiscite, ensuring that the people of Kashmir are the ones who determine their future.

Dr. Syed Nazir Gilani

President JKCHR

16.01.2025

Dr Nazir Gilani's Facebook post above may be commented on here

I have made the following comment there:

You are probably the only person qualified to anchor such a discussion. Demilitarisation involves creating alternative security arrangements as much as an environment of 'freedom of expression'. These are all matters of internal dynamics within the State, which - the #People of the territory of #AJK - can be credited for creating such amicable conditions, through peaceful & thoughtful mass activism.

....

Later in the evening, we continue with our daily live vlog on Facebook:

Who qualifies to work in public interest in AJK? 

Options:

1) Any individual? 

2) Any party? 

3) Any forum? 

4) Any alliance? 

5) Any committee? 

6) Any government? 

7) Any tribe? 

8) Any religious sect or other special interest group? 

Your answers please. 

As short or as long as possible? 

JKA PUBLIC AGENCY Questionnaire:  #EQ1201516012025

Additional Question:

Do you want to buy conflict stock or peace stock to earn a 10,000% gain (on 10 year fixed deposit) as individuals in the most coveted State in the world?

Follow this daily vlog here on this page (FB) Tanveer Ahmed (sahaafi) or on our dedicated TikTok account - opened on the first day of this year (2025) - @jkapublicagency1

#Conflict2Peace

#PublicPolicy

#PopularSovereignty

#1To100Economy

JKA PUBLIC AGENCY Note: #E232016012025

Responses:

(names remain anonymous at this stage but the relevant district of the respondents is mentioned:

1) Mirpur

نمبر ون (Number 1) viz. any individual

2) Bagh

ایک مشترکہ کمیٹی اور الائنس میں کوئی خاص فرق نہیں ۔ مختصر جواب یہی ہے کے کمیٹی ہو یا الائنس جانداز منشور کے ساتھ اگر جدوجہد کرے تو بہتر ہوگا

(English translation)

There isn't much difference between a collective committee and an alliance. In short, whether it is a committee or an alliance, if it struggles with a strong manifesto, that is best.

3) Muzaffarabad

#4 viz. any alliance

4) Muzaffarabad

2 viz. any party

5) Kotli

Aphc. (All Parties Hurriyat Conference)

6) Neelam

I don't think,.... that the agencies mentioned above are in the position to do something for the welfare of the people of AAJK.....all types of caretaker system are being introduced here to continue the on going situation..... because many people of the globe including India, Pakistan and China, have to earn their bread and butter from this issue that is known as Kashmir problem.

7) Poonch

Jammu Kashmir joint Awami Action Committee

8) Mirpur

To work for the welfare of humanity in the state of Jammu and Kashmir, the approach should be divided into two distinct phases:

i)The Pre-Independence Era of the Entire State:

Before the full independence of the state, it is unrealistic to rely on laws and constitutions for serving the people, as the region is currently under the administration of multiple countries. Instead of ensuring public welfare, these laws and systems have become tools for exploitation and deceit.

In this phase, a strong public alliance will be essential. People must come together, beyond all divisions, to work selflessly for the betterment of humanity.

Efforts should focus on providing basic necessities, facilitating lives, and solving immediate problems through collective action and mutual cooperation.

ii) The Post-Independence Era of the Entire State:

Once the state achieves full independence, a robust and transparent constitution must be established, ensuring equal rights and welfare for all its citizens.

This constitution should include mechanisms for real enforcement, not just theoretical provisions.

It must empower a leader who is a true well-wisher of the entire state, someone who prioritizes humanity, justice, and progress over personal or regional biases.

9) Poonch

1 🙏🏻 viz. any individual

10) UK (Guest response)

Any AJK citizen

11) Poonch

Forums and government.

Also individuals but individual efforts are often fragmented and subjective.

My Response:

Individuals also have a better chance of remaining non-partisan in public affairs. Just a thought.

Their Response (in turn):

Yes, I am the same individual. Doing my work on my own but for the people of AJK.

12) Muzaffarabad

AsSlamOAlikum, 

Hopefully you are done well, profound gratitude that you considered my opinion also means something. 

That part of the Azad Jammu and Kashmir region which we call Azad Kashmir, We have always been in a state of confusion as to whether we are free or whether we are slaves. Because the rulers who impose their rule on us sometimes say that "we are free "Azad Kashmir", sometimes they say that we will take the Freedom "Hum Ly ka Rahen Gy Azadi". 

A small region with resources three times its size has been so degraded that the majority of its population cannot live there. In the last few years, we have seen that most of the youth of Pakistan have left the country after the COVID-19 pandemic & they went and started looking for jobs in other countries. Even now, thinkers, planners, strategists and other patriots sitting in Pakistan are in shock over this... It is being repeatedly discussed that the future of Pakistan is in great danger because the youth here have left. I ask all my friends in Azad Kashmir, out of a population of 4.2 million, 2.6 million Kashmiris have almost said goodbye to their state and gone to other countries for employment. Has any ruler of Azad Kashmir, or our lawyer Pakistan, ever said anything about this? I have not met any famous person, leader, party, forum, alliance, committee, government, opposition, community, tribe, religion or sect I have never seen anyone discuss or work in a progressive manner on this important issue, or any other issue that is relevant to the people of this state.

Our hearts also ache when these situations arise before us and we are unable to do anything special even if we want to. If we talk about hope, then surely one person can come along who can change the situation in the entire state. Such a person can come in the form of a party, a forum, an alliance committee, a government or any other group, But this is just a matter of hope, and the world of dreams is built on hope. It takes hard work to create a world of real reality. 

I would absolutely say that unless our education system is modernized, we will continue to face difficulties. If today we have achieved our rights through our unity, awareness and protest, tomorrow they will bring out a new agenda and put us in harm's way. We have to move forward in our education system along with awareness. I am very impressed with the role played by the Jammu and Kashmir Joint Public Action Committee in the last two years. The entire state was united and brought awareness, and Kashmiris all over the world proudly said, "Yes, I am a Kashmiri." This is a great thing. I would like to thank all 30 members of the committee for this, But my demand is from all the youth of the Kashmiri nation that they should start working for their rights and welfare themselves. 

Allah Pak only helps those who help themselves, We, the people of Azad Jammu and Kashmir, may be few in number, but we are enough to unite our entire country of Jammu and Kashmir and Gilgit-Baltistan, which has been divided into pieces, and bring it back into one state. Though this determination must include the spirit that we practically play a full role in the welfare of our region. We ourselves must be capable enough to face our oppressors with equality.  The day we become capable, That will be the first day of our prosperity and our enemy will die his own death. 

Therefore I believe, none of any organization is qualified enough to work truly in a public interest but the Educated Youth and People Themselves.

13) Sudhnoti

Anyone and everyone can work in public interest as long as they know what is the public interest concerning subject matters of public interest, how to mobilise tangible and intangible resources, how to develop and sustain partnerships and manage stakeholders and risks.

14) Neelam

عوامی مفاد کے لیے اب تک کام کرنے والی  جموں کشمیر جوائنٹ عوامی ایکشن کمیٹی ہے جو عوامی مفاد کے لیے کام کر رہی ہے مخلص ہو کر

(English translation)

Jammu Kashmir Joint Awami Action Committee has to date worked for public interest in a sincere manner.

15) Poonch

Option 1) Any Individual 

Reasoning for my answer: state must treat all her statesmen equal.

16) Sudhnoti

4 viz. any alliance

17) Mirpur

"I firmly believe that only loyal and dedicated residents of Jammu and Kashmir, who genuinely prioritize the welfare and development of the region, should be considered for leadership or decision-making roles. It shouldn't matter which political party, sect, or community (bradri) they belong to, as long as their intentions are true and they are committed to serving the people, rather than acting as mere puppets for external influences."

18) Mirpur

Anyone who has the collective interest at heart and is motivated solely in public interest and not personal interest

19) Kotli

Any government

20) Jhelum Valley (Hattian)

In AJK, any individual, party, forum, alliance, committee, government, tribe, or group can work in the public interest; provided their efforts are inclusive, transparent, and focused on collective welfare. 

The key is to prioritize public needs over personal or partisan agendas. The Jammu Kashmir Joint Awami Action Committee is a notable example of such effective and consistent advocacy, addressing fundamental public issues with integrity and commitment.

21) Neelam

Whatever little is being done, is being done by the Joint Awami Action Committee. Apart from that; there is no movement, party, committee or other (organisational) formation doing anything in public interest. This is the truth. Even if someone wants to do something in public interest, they do not have the support of the public. Whatever you are doing, I am with you unconditionally. Whenever you need my support, you will find me standing with you.

22) Sudhnoti

Some individuals only.

23) Muzaffarabad

1 viz. any individual

24) Bagh

"Any individual" who is a citizen of AJK.

25) Muzaffarabad

ایکشن کمیٹی

جموں کشمیر جوائنٹ عوامی ایکشن

کمیٹث

(English translation)

Action Committee

Jammu Kashmir Joint Awami Action

Committed

26) Haveli

Action committee

27) Kotli

Every individual should be selected through a computer-based, tamper-proof system that combines psychometric tests to ensure recruitment is based solely on merit. The entire process must be made as transparent as possible. Those serving our nation should receive top-tier salaries to attract the most qualified candidates. This approach will ensure they feel rewarded, reducing the likelihood of them leaving the job or engaging in risky behaviour.

28) Kotli

JKGB Awami Action Committee

29) Sudhnoti

عوامی ایکشن کمیٹی جوائنٹ عوامی ایکشن کمیٹی ریاست جم کشمیر کے حقوق کے لیے جس طرح کام کر رہی ہے میرے اندازے میں اگر اسی طرح ہم سب متفق ہو کر کام کریں تو ریاست جموں کشمیر کی ازادی خود مختاری یا لوگوں کے حقوق ان کو مل سکتے ہیں

(English translation)

The manner in which Joint Awami Action Committee is working for the collective rights of the people of Kashmir, it is my estimation that if we all agree to work together then the freedom, independence of the State of Jammu Kashmir or the rights of the people can be obtained.

30) Kotli

عوام کی حکومت ہونی چاہیے

(English translation)

The public should have their own government

31) Bagh

1 viz. any individual

&

5 viz. any committee

32) Bagh

1 viz. any individual

33) Neelam

The movement in Azad Kashmir has only just begun to gain momentum, particularly with the emergence of the Awami Action Committee. To truly bring about change, we must start at the individual level. Our occupiers, trained in the British tradition of 'divide and rule,' have long exploited our divisions. It's essential that we educate ourselves and the masses about the realities of our occupation and its impact on our lives.

We must recognize that our struggles are not just about economic survival but also about reclaiming our rights and autonomy.

34) Mirpur

(1) Any individual

….

Daily Diary (DD) - Day 357 of 2023

2009hrs:

After a hectic session of interaction with almost a dozen of my co-citizens from various parts of AJK beginning on the day before yesterday and lasting well into the early hours of yesterday, followed by a hectic day of work on the field, all contributed to exhaustion by the evening. 

These were all contributing factors in not being able to log an entry for Day 356 of 2023. 

It is not an excuse as factoring in all daily needs and duties is a duty in the life of an activist in AJK.

We will try our utmost to reclaim a 100% record of daily blogging in 2024 and reflect on how and why we lapsed in 2023.

....   

Day 356 of 2023

What should have been, in its own right:

....

Daily Diary (DD) - Day 354 of 2023

1114hrs:

We will be digging deeper into the functioning of local governance in our home tehsil (subdivision) Sehnsa over the next few days, weeks and months.

....

I shall use the following words written by Dr Shabir Choudhary himself to introduce the following video:

A dialogue with Tanveer Ahmed. Make Azad Kashmir military free zone. Peaceful struggle to continue.

We don't need protection from the Pakistani army. There shall be no war with India. Promotion of trade, peace and regional cooperation is needed.

....

Daily Diary (DD) - Day 346 of 2023

1836hrs:

Accelerating fast!

....

Such activities as the following on the part of Pakistan's army have increased in AJK over the past few years in particular. Wherever they find a scenic abode to their liking in our territory, they begin construction without any due procedure of consulting the local people or the government. This always has a devastating effect on the local environment as well as society living nearby.

It also creates fear and intimidation in the local people whose normal day to day life gets affected and gradually they are deprived of access of local natural amenities for themselves, their families and livestock.

There are no military or security compulsions for the Pakistani army to engage in such intrusive activity. It is either commercially related or a source of entertainment for them.

We have maintained contact with the locals, some of whom have tried to obtain legal reprieve in the shape of a 'stay order'. Even that, they are doing in a discreet manner so as not to invite reprisal from the Pakistani Army.

Others locals have opined that there doesn't appear to be any security compulsion for such encroachment. One even went to the extent of saying that, "We know that the Indian army is not interested in sustaining conflict and is more focused on economy, while the Pakistani army continues to give this false perception that they are under constant threat from the Indians!"

Meanwhile, we did raise this issue with the Assistant Commissioner's (AC) office in Sehnsa. The AC himself avoided meeting us on a couple of occasions as the fear of the Pakistani army runs deep in our administration. However, we understand that he did interact with the Pakistani army on his own initiative and gave them some idea of what to expect in terms of local resistance.

Indeed, we have chalked out a strategy of demilitarisation which we are implementing gradually. They have been ousted from a couple of other places in our subdivision before and likewise will be ousted from here too. 

Thriya (Afzalpur) also happens to be my adjacent village as well as the village of our current member of the AJK Legislative Assembly (MLA) Choudhary Ikhlaq.   

Watch this space....

....

Coverage of Sehnsa from nearby Poonch:

....

Daily Diary (DD) - Day 147 of 2023

2036hrs:

A lot is cooking. One of our close aides and co-citizen extraordinaire Israr Ahmed s/o Muhammad Riyasat was picked up by 'some men' - accompanied by the local police - in the middle of the night (reported to be c. 0100hrs) from his home, while sleeping with his family.

It emerged that he was picked up for criticising or mocking the Pakistani army's attempts to generate public solidarity in Dadyaal yesterday.

Stiff reaction came in the morning from the public and from Israr Ahmed's political party - JKLF - in particular.

Consequently and post 'arrest' a document was circulated to the public via the district magistrate's office in Mirpur that Israr Ahmed had been arrested under 16 MPO (Maintenance of Public Order) and would be detained at Mirpur central jail for 30 days. Further, that the order could be judicially challenged.

It should be clear that - from past experience - if the public had not made a timely intervention on Israr's nocturnal abduction, he would probably be declared missing indefinitely. 

Public pressure ensured that the location of Israr's detention became clear and that legal remedy was available. 

The Pakistani military should not make the mistake of considering this territory to be like their own. They should also refrain from exporting Pakistan's political instability into this territory. It is ridiculous that they feel the need to force our public to come out onto the streets, in solidarity with them. 

The above are some of the concerns cited by our public.

The following is the public statement penned by myself in the morning, upon being notified about Israr Ahmed's abduction:

English:

In any society of humans the rule of law and due course of legality is inescapable. 

Roman Urdu:

Insaano ke kisi bhi ma-asharey me qanoon ki baala dasti aur qanooni tarteeb (due course of legality) na guzeer hay. 

E: 

Abducting any citizen of AJK from his or her home in the middle of the night is akin to declaring war on the public of AJK...

RU:

Kisi AJK ke shehri ko raat ko us ke ghar se aghwa karna yaha ki awaam se ilaan e jang ke mutaraadif hay...

E:

The Geneva Convention applies in a conflict zone and the Pakistani State has broken international law in this State.

RU:

Conflict zone me Geneva Convention apply karta hay aur Pakistan ki State ne international law ki khilaaf warzi ki hay is riyasat me. 

E:

We make an ethical request that they immediately produce Israr in Dadyaal courts and explain to the judge details of what allegations have been made.

RU:

Un se akhlaaqi quzaarish hay ke wo Israr ko filfor Dadyaal ki adaalat me pesh karey aur judge ke saamney wazaahat karey ke Israr ke khilaaf kya kya ilzamaat hain.

E:

Advice is being sought from international legal experts and diplomats.

RU:

Is case par bain ul aqwami qanooni maahireen aur sifaaratkaro se bhi mashaawarat jaari hay.

E:

If Israr is not produced in Dadyaal courts then we will advocate for sanctions against Pakistan.

RU:

Agar Israr Dadyaal ki adaalat me pesh nahi kiya gaya to hum Pakistan ke khilaaf sanctions ke liye advocacy karengey.

....

Here are a couple of relevant posts:

Israr Ahmed's party leader Toqeer Gilani also gave a statement of condemnation over his arrest:

However, most notable of all was the roadblock in Dadyaal conducted by Israr's JKLF colleagues at the bypass junction in Amb:

....

Daily Diary (DD) - Day 292 of 2022

1301hrs:

Day 136 at Maqbool Bhat Shaheed Square - Dadyaal.

0840hrs

My punctuality surplus has reverted to a deficit once again and almost all of a sudden. The deficit has emerged as 15 minutes. No excuses can be offered despite everything.

Punctuality percentage: 80 days on time or early of 136 = 59% punctual.

....

- If the prevailing government set-up in AJK fulfils any of its assumed duties, we will praise it.

- What it doesn't or cannot do is the responsibility of the public.

- If the public doesn't fulfil its responsibility, some of us have to adopt that responsibility according to our capacity.

- In the weird context of AJK, this can be described as a public-private partnership:

The latter activity kept me on duty till almost midday.

....

Daily Diary (DD) - Day 271 of 2022

2038hrs:

Day 115 at Maqbool Bhat Shaheed Square - Dadyaal.

0806hrs

My punctuality deficit has increased to 45 minutes. This is sickening!

Punctuality percentage: 65 days on time or early of 115 = 57% punctual.

.... 

Day 16 on Twitter Spaces delivers our 3rd public policy review:

Set a reminder for my upcoming Space! https://t.co/K90J1XSvQ5
Reviewing what we've discussed in the past 4 episodes on:#Demilitarisation#PopulationCensus#Taxation#MandirsAndGurdwarasInAJK

Practice makes perfect and words should lead to action.

— Tanveer Ahmed (@sahaafi) September 28, 2022

Associated reference:

Reclaiming Azad Jammu Kashmir (AJK) For Her People and the Evolution of AJK Public Agency:

Do we expend further energy on reforming our Governance within the prevailing structure or do we rebel like they did in 1947? 

Or is there a middle path? 

Link

Space Count (That is: How many people have engaged so far): 73 (updated at 1807hrs on 08/10/2022) 

Average space count (16 days so far): 148

....

Daily Diary (DD) - Day 267 of 2022

1535hrs:

Day 111 at Maqbool Bhat Shaheed Square - Dadyaal.

0757hrs

My punctuality deficit has decreased to 19 minutes.

Punctuality percentage: 63 days on time or early of 111 = 57% punctual.

....

Day 12 presents episode 12 of our evening slot on Twitter. We are already into our 3rd phase of 4 topics on public policy in JKA. We are now delving deeper in search of practical solutions and as 'security' is priority number 1, hence discussing demilitarisation is in order:

Set a reminder for my upcoming Space! https://t.co/UacoQYS0iD
It is unlikely that we will progress without consensus n the elephant's playground.#Security#ConflictTransformation#WarAndPeace#Demilitarisation
U either have a practical prosperous narrative r accept permanent DV

— Tanveer Ahmed (@sahaafi) September 24, 2022

Associated reference:

I have written various notes/proposals/suggestions on demilitarisation since 2012 in particular. Here is one such example:

Link

Space Count (That is: How many people have engaged so far): 83 (updated at 0028hrs on 30/09/2022) 

 

Average space count (12 days so far): 92

....

I think #Pakistan needs to reset its priorities in favour of its own citizens. Whatever it considers its role in Jammu Kashmir & Allied (areas) #JKA can be more appropriately performed by the people of this territory. Please get out of the way.#JKASovereignty#AJKPublicAgency https://t.co/JZZ8T9yLhB

— Tanveer Ahmed (@sahaafi) September 24, 2022

.... 

Daily Diary (DD) - Day 157 of 2020

1142hrs:

Friday is designated as a rest day but I have been summoned for yet another outing towards the peripheries of Dadyaal. 

I won't go though. Friday is my rest day from physical exertion as I am increasingly exerting myself for the other 6 days of the week.

I also need to develop on this thread as we gradually transition from public opinion research to economic research:

Offer from a citizen of #AJK & #GilgitBaltistan :

10,000 rupees for each #Pakistani citizen per month is what we are offering, subject to their personal income being less than 6 lakh rupees per annum.

In return for #Pakistan agreeing to reduce its military presence in AJK. pic.twitter.com/iz7kHq9Ljg

— Tanveer Ahmed (@sahaafi) June 4, 2020

The above proposition is geared towards addressing the welfare of Pakistani society, which has suffered needlessly for the sake of Pakistan's doomed expansionist strategy in Jammu Kashmir & Allied areas. We have always held good intentions for our neighbours and want an end to this mutual destruction of the region. A seemingly intractable lose-lose situation for all concerned. 

For that, we need to transform this conflict economy environment to a peace economy environment. As the tweet above clearly suggests, we are willing to pay for this transformation.

One must bear in mind that this proposition is a form of income support for working people or those that are in a position to work but can't practically find employment. It would subsidise the earnings of those whose income falls below the threshold mentioned and those who are actively seeking work. Unfortunately, unlike some trolls and ill-intentioned propagandists (which Pakistan has too many of), this is not a blanket offer for every citizen of their country. 

It excludes the vast majority of people. 

For example:

1) Those under the age of 16.

2) Elderly/retired people.

3) Those whose income or assets exceed the threshold.

4) Women who are not active in the workplace.

5) Students and those engaged in other pursuits distinct from full time work.

Finally, it should be reiterated that this proposition is a goodwill gesture to transform the region into a healthy array of peace economies and encourage people to work and conduct business - increase economic activity essentially - and it is not designed as a free for all handout to make people even lazier then they may already be.

It should also be noted that the funds for this 'regional economic package' will come from the public treasury of the whole State of Jammu Kashmir & Allied and not just from AJK. It will be designed, monitored and executed by our own government and not simply handed over to the Pakistani State. We will - needless to say - afford these associated costs too. 

The package is clearly designed as a genuine incentive for demilitarisation. The Pakistani retreat will be in calculated phases while an alternative indigenously led security framework is put in place. This initiative will then open avenues for an Indian military retreat in a likewise manner. Consequent to which, discussions can begin to negotiate a Chinese military withdrawal.

This financial package is not intended for India or China as the context of their presence does not warrant such an initiative. The Indians entered when the Pakistani invasion provided that pretext to them, thus a Pakistani military withdrawal will cancel India's reasoning for its military presence here. Even if you study the UN template on this region, the emphasis on initial Pakistani withdrawal is a conditional feature of that mechanism. 

In short; given geopolitical, diplomatic and economic realities it is 'relatively' easier to make Pakistan withdraw from our territory compared to India and China. Given that they are our Muslim neighbours they should understand our point of view better than others and also understand that this is for their benefit. We deferred to them for 73 years and suffered even more than them for our blind allegiance, now it is their turn to listen to us, not blindly as we did but with very open eyes and ears. Likewise, it is relatively easier to make India withdraw from our territory compared to China.

Overall, we do need a global agreement to protect our neutrality and ensure that our territory is not used by any country to the detriment of any other country. We want to close the doors of conflict in our region and pre-empt looming water wars.

This applies to India and Pakistan as much as it does to China and America.

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Meanwhile, the above Twitter post generated a far more energetic conversation on Facebook, where it was initially posted yesterday:

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Daily Diary (DD) - Day 133 of 2020

0513hrs:

Now, this article was from way back on September the 10th 2019. Which seems a very long time ago and I probably would have remained oblivious of it if somebody didn't Whatsapp me earlier this morning!

I wasn't aware of this article until someone Whatsapped me earlier today. I was urged by a very senior Pakistani to assist him in reforming the Pakistani narrative about a decade ago. I think he's come a long way even without my assistance! https://t.co/nuFeJi7nxm

— Tanveer Ahmed (@sahaafi) May 12, 2020

I don't agree with his conclusive paragraphs though. For many years I have strongly felt that the most effective role Pakistan can play in Jammu Kashmir & Allied is to play no role at all! This also means vacating the territories of AJK and GB in a gradual phased manner. Something I've been advocating since 2012.

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It is important for us to understand the extent of pre 1947 governance in Jammu Kashmir & Allied:



For those of you who cannot read the photo caption:

1920-----Amar Singh technical institute Srinagar!


It was started in 1913 and inaugurated in 1914 by Maharaja Partap Singh. Students were taught arts, sculpture, painting, designing, carpentering, architectural techniques and masonry. Fredrick H.Andrew was its first principal and later became principal of Mayo College of Arts, Lahore.

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Daily Diary (DD) - Day 231 of 2019

1231hrs:

There is what I would describe as a virus doing the rounds in AJK ever since India's seemingly unilateral action to chop up Article 370 of its constitution, exactly 14 days ago.

The Pakistanis are on a charm offensive. Here are 2 examples:

Exhibit 1: (recieved via Whatsapp on August the 11th)

I have received the following message containing a political solution on present state of changed Kashmir Status from another friend. The Political Solution has been put forth by a former Brigadier (in the Pakistani army) namely Mr. Imtiaz Malik as under:

OUT OF BOX SOLUTIONS RECEIVED FROM ANOTHER FORUM:

India has made a political move, not a military one, therefore, our answer (while out of box), must also be of political nature and unsettling enough for India.

1. We can unilaterally call off Shimla Accord since India has integrated a territory declared disputed in that accord. This would change the status of Line of Control back to Cease Fire Line. It would also deny India an opportunity to tell others that India-Pakistan has a bilateral accord to settle disputes like Kashmir.

2. Even more daring step can be to ask Azad Jummu & Kashmir Government to declare independence of entire State of J&K. Act as a 'government in absentia' for Indian occupied part as well. Apply for membership of the UN and OIC, where Pakistan should strongly support its membership. India did same with us in 1971, when it supported Bangladesh government in exile. This step alone would change the entire equation. Domestically all people of valley will be energized and get united. At international level, the nature of dispute would change from Territorial issue between two states to that of self rule of Kasmiris. Security council resolutions which are dormant , will now become most relevant.

3. The new independent State of Azad J&K can still keep defence pact with Pakistan to defend it against Indian aggression, if any.

4. As soon as Azad J&K get the UN membership, it can also invoke International Court of Justice to declare instrument of accession being void as that accord as well as Contitutional agreement made by the past governments with Indian Union has been violated by India, and that would make Indian occupation illegal.

He thinks it a very befitting and effective proposition. All segments of proposal are very cogent, in fitness of things considering 7 decades of Indian treacherous conduct regarding Kashmir. It seems like an opportunity as we had in 1962 which we failed to materialize. Proposals must be propagated in all forums so that enough analytical and critical aspects surface.

 Please share in your networks for wider discussions and building a more pragmatic approach for diplomatic campaign.

End of x. Brigadier's proposal....

My initial response:

Sounds like a similar suggestion of the 1980s which was bought hook, line and sinker by the JKLF and others....we don't want to repeat that. All Pakistan has to do is keep its mouth shut and slowly begin demilitarisation from AJK. They have been given a direction since 2012. They need to follow that.

Exhibit 2:

This is Professor Doctor Mehdi Hassan who is described as a leading intellectual of Pakistan; being interviewed for his opinion on the current scenario:

This was my immediate response:

I think the old gentleman is terribly misguided and contradictory. He talks of avoiding a territorial dispute but gives suggestions based on a territorial dispute. He is suggesting that Pakistan should allow AJK to be a sovereign State but follow the agenda given by Pakistan.

This is legerdemain once again!

Now, it should be clear that we in AJK are in no mood to allow Pakistan to pull the wool over our eyes yet again. It needs to demilitarise in phases as suggested in the internal political process. We don't need a defence pact with them, we need a defence pact with the whole world! Our destination is that of a neutral territory and thus we cannot engage in pacts or agreements which align us in any way to any country in particular. The Pakistanis must understand that their interference in J & K is a large part of the problem and thus, the less they interfere the more progress we can make towards a solution. 

This is a battle for fundamental rights, dignity and identity. All countries involved in J & K should understand that. Our battle is legal, peaceful and democratic. We must tackle our obstacles bit by bit, getting Pakistan to demilitarise will pave the way for Indian demilitarisation. That in turn will enable us to tackle Chinese presence in our territory.

The energy, resources and mindset needed for Chinese eviction is more than that needed to evict India. Likewise, the energy, resources and mindset needed to evict India is more than that needed to evict Pakistan.

If we can't evict our Muslim neighbours who are at the bottom of the power equation in this complex puzzle and who claim to speak on our behalf, how on earth are we going to evict larger powers who show no such sympathy or inclination?

We must be clear about our objectives and the world must be clear about our utility as a neutral entity in Asia. The precedent of Switzerland is already available in Europe and has been since 1515. For us, 2020 is just around the corner!

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While en route to public interest work this afternoon, I happened to come across this activity at the main thoroughfare. Was this a coincidence or was this done purposefully on my approach. Well, an Indian flag doesn't get created suddenly and neither are they in supply in AJK. However, as I'm not clear who is behind this and there is some choreographed aspect to this act, I am beginning to wonder!



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A polite reminder:

people from POK taken by pkarmy in 2018:AJK 229,GB:53
No idea they are dead or alive.#NaeemButt was killed by paki forces in protest in POK.
Sec 144 in #Muzaffarabad against any one gathering for protest
Treason cases against JKLF NSF for demanding freedom
Next Please

— #SaveRiverSaveMuzaffarabad (@khawajaatteeq) August 19, 2019

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So it is now likely that the UK may not just be divided on Brexit, Jammu & Kashmir could also become contentious between the Conservatives and Labour:



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