No Compromise on Kashmiris’ Right to Self-Determination – Hafiz Naeem ur Rehman
Lahore ( Web News )
Ameer of Jamaat-e-Islami, Hafiz Naeem ur Rehman, stated that India’s humiliating defeat is in reality also a defeat for Israel. The recent conflict has shown that Israel is India’s only ally in the world; one dreams of Greater Israel, the other of Akhand Bharat (Undivided India).
He emphasized that in the proposed Islamabad-New Delhi negotiations, no compromise other than Kashmiris’ right to self-determination will be acceptable. “If anyone retreats even an inch from the principled stance on Kashmir, the nation will make them a lesson for others,” he warned.
Speaking at a press conference in Mansoora on Thursday, accompanied by Liaqat Baloch, Ameerul Azeem, Dr. Tariq Saleem, and Shakil Tarabi, he announced visits to Azad Kashmir and the Line of Control on Friday, a grand “Defense of Pakistan and Solidarity with Gaza” march in Abbottabad on May 17, Chakdara on May 18, and Bannu on May 25.
Hafiz Naeem said that at a time when the nation is united, the government should take steps that reinforce national unity. He proposed tax relief up to Rs. 120,000 salary for salaried individuals, imposition of taxes on large landlords, and price reductions on seeds and fertilizers to facilitate small farmers. He criticized the Punjab government for symbolic tractor distribution programs and urged them to develop agriculture- and farmer-friendly policies.
He also demanded acceleration of peace efforts in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan, and immediate resolution of the missing persons issue.
Regarding Nawaz Sharif, he said, “He must answer for his silence during the recent war.” He clarified that although Jamaat-e-Islami supports PTI’s principled stance on election rigging investigations, this does not mean support for every PTI position.
Commenting on India’s defeat, he said, “Indians were united, but this loss has scattered them and caused infighting. Meanwhile, the previously divided Pakistani nation is now united.”
He urged U.S. President Donald Trump to bring about a ceasefire in Gaza and resolve the Kashmir issue per UN resolutions if he truly desires trade and development. “Peace for humanity is tied to peace in the Middle East,” he added.
He said those who dreamt of “peace through friendship with Israel” have seen their hopes dashed, and those spreading despair in Pakistan are themselves now disheartened. He stressed the need for the government to show diplomatic initiative, ensure implementation of the Indus Waters Treaty, and welcomed the Prime Minister’s recent firm stance on Kashmir.
He condemned the ongoing atrocities in Gaza and criticized the silence of Muslim world leaders, stating that obedience to America does not bring honor or dignity. He also shed light on Nakba Day (May 15), the Zionist racist movement, and the long Palestinian resistance against it.
Hafiz Naeem ur Rehman concluded by stating that the armed struggles of both Kashmiris and Palestinians are in line with the UN Charter, and the recent war has shown the Muslim world that Pakistan is technologically advanced, with even Bangladesh showing support for Pakistan, which is a source of pride and satisfaction for the Ummah.
Rulers Must Not Use PECA Act to Pursue Sinister Agendas – Hafiz Naeem ur Rehman
Jamaat-e-Islami Ameer Hafiz Naeem ur Rehman emphasized that while tackling fake news is essential, the PECA Act must not be used by the rulers to pursue their own agendas. He insisted that freedom of expression must be guaranteed, and Jamaat-e-Islami would fully support journalistic organizations in their struggle against PECA.
He made these remarks during a meeting with a CPNE (Council of Pakistan Newspaper Editors) delegation led by President Kazim Khan. The delegation included Ghulam Nabi Chandio (Secretary General), Ayaz Khan (Senior Vice President), Tanveer Shaukat (Deputy Secretary), Irshad Arif (Chairman Media Freedom Committee), Ijaz-ul-Haq (Former Secretary General), and Waqas Tariq (Joint Secretary Punjab). From Jamaat-e-Islami, Ameerul Azeem (Secretary General) and Shakil Ahmed Tarabi (Information Secretary) were also present.
Hafiz Naeem said that in a time when India has faced defeat and national spirit is high, measures like the PECA Act will only increase unrest and disunity in the country. He demanded that the PECA Act be withdrawn immediately and a broad consultation process initiated to create consensus-based legislation.
He further stated that Jamaat-e-Islami would participate in all journalistic activities against PECA. He praised Pakistan’s media for its professional conduct during the India-Pakistan war, contrasting it with the global ridicule faced by Indian media. Kazim Khan and CPNE members noted that the Pakistani media had previously been accused of irresponsibility, but after the war, both government and military spokespersons acknowledged its responsible reporting. Even the DG ISPR expressed gratitude to the national media.
Hafiz Naeem also emphasized the need for timely and assured payment of salaries to media house employees, which Kazim Khan agreed to include in the CPNE agenda, stating that full implementation depends on federal and provincial governments clearing outstanding dues.