“Every law in the world allows self-defence. The culture of jihad fundamentally represents the right to self-defence, which means that every adult in Azad Kashmir should be trained enough to stand alongside Pakistan's armed forces to defend themselves in case of aggression from our wicked enemy,” he said while responding to questions from this correspondent.
In a charged address to a large gathering on January 5, Mr Haq had surprised many by announcing that all resources of the liberated territory would be redirected to revive ‘jihadi culture’ to oust the oppressive Indian forces from occupied Jammu and Kashmir.
Ever since, he has clarified his viewpoint multiple times.
“I wonder why we are scared of even speaking about the concept of jihad…Why should we adopt such an apologetic attitude?”
The AJK premier asserted that his top priorities included highlighting the Kashmir freedom movement on an international level, and taking welfare measures alongside raising awareness among the people of the state.
He condemned India for committing grave human rights violations in occupied Jammu and Kashmir and warned that New Delhi's unilateral and arbitrary actions could destabilise the region.
“India is also making desperate attempts to create chaos in AJK through a consistent campaign, and we have to be extra vigilant and devise a robust strategy to thwart her evil designs.”
“We will have to sacrifice our personal interests to get rid of the prevailing atmosphere of polarisation,” he added.
He lauded the sacrifices of Pakistan's armed forces, asserting that the people of AJK and Pakistan stood shoulder-to-shoulder with them in fulfilling the sacred duty of national defence.
“Ours is a protector army and their’s (India’s) is a killer army, which has spared no inhuman act to suppress the freedom seeking Kashmiris,” he said.
He asserted that his narrative deeply troubled India.
Mr Haq said that during his 20 months in office, he had faced countless challenges but managed to end systemic stagnation.
“When I took the oath, the government was facing a financial deficit. I prioritized savings schemes immediately, invested in tourism, saved billions through e-tendering and vehicle auctions, and implemented health packages and improvements in education, roads, and infrastructure,” he said.
He cited a record increase in tax collection as evidence of good governance and revealed that the next tax collection target had been set at Rs 40 billion.
“To be honest, 2024 was not an easy year. We faced challenges but resolved them through collective wisdom,” he said.
He asserted that AJK was truly free and claimed that his government had maintained law and order through policies of patience and collective wisdom rather than force.
“Development is our mission, and we are protectors of fundamental rights, but we will not allow anyone to spread unrest,” he declared.
“We are working to inspire youth towards the vision of their ancestors.”
Mr Haq reiterated his belief in the rule of law and impartial accountability, stating that no system could last without reward and punishment.
He criticized previous governments for rendering the Ehtesab Bureau ineffective and stressed the dire need for effective legislation to ensure accountability in letter and spirit.
“Certain mafias were under the misconception that they could buy consciences. With Allah's grace, I proved them wrong. I took action against mafias, which also contributed to increased revenue collection,” he said.
He acknowledged being the prime minister of an “unnatural alliance” and said he had to manage all factions collectively.
“I have enjoyed strong support from coalition parties. However, some individuals wanted to remove me due to conflicts of interest,” he said, refraining from naming anyone.
He praised the exemplary working relationship with the federal government and expressed gratitude for Islamabad’s cooperation in providing subsidies on flour and electricity.
Mr Haq admitted the spill-over effects of political polarization from Pakistan but claimed that AJK’s political system was partially better than Pakistan’s.
He noted that general elections in AJK had always been held on time, even during martial law regimes in Pakistan.
“The next elections are 18 months away, and the contest will be between major political parties,” he said.
Tariq Naqash
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