When it comes to deciding the pattern of self-governance on the Pakistani side of the Line of Control, no serious discussion is needed.
Where is the question of self-governance when Pakistan has, by and large, been ruled, by one military dictator or the other?
If no respect is shown to the democratic aspirations of the people of Pakistan, how can its military rulers possibly grant autonomy to the government of ‘Azad Jammu & Kashmir’ (AJK)?
Readers may recall that after General Zia-ulHaqÂ’s coup in 1977, the AJK Assembly was dissolved, the parliamentary system scrapped and a presidential form of government set in motion. An army brigadier was appointed Chief Executive.
This arrangement continued till 1985, when elections were held after amending the rules such that the opposition parties were marginalised.