rki.news
By Altaf Hamid Rao
Mirpur (AJK): Veteran Kashmiri jurist and former President of the Mirpur District Bar Association Advocate Raja Zulfiqar has termed the inclusion of his name in the Fourth Schedule as unjust and unwarranted, stating that he has always followed a peaceful and constitutional approach for public welfare, human rights, and civic issues.
Addressing a press conference at Kashmir Press Club, Raja Zulfiqar said he had consistently raised his voice for fundamental rights, public interests, and resolution of civic problems through the platform of the Peoples Supreme Council, comprising lawyers and representatives from different sections of society.
He said his public activities since student life had remained focused on addressing community issues and playing a constructive role. He clarified that while he supported certain demands raised in various public movements, he had never supported any proscribed organization or participated in its activities.
Raja Zulfiqar said he had always urged authorities to avoid the use of force and unnecessary arrests to maintain peace and prevent law and order challenges. He maintained that his efforts through the District Bar Association were aimed only at resolving public grievances and protecting citizens’ rights.
He rejected allegations against him, saying he had never made anti-Pakistan statements or supported any foreign agenda. He added that he had always advocated giving importance to public opinion while addressing the Kashmir issue.
Raja Zulfiqar also said he was associated with the Peoples National Party, whose programs had been attended by politicians, intellectuals, and people from different walks of life. He expressed concern over what he described as the misuse of state machinery against individuals working for public rights.
Former Bar President Advocate Kamran Tariq Chaudhry said the movement against high electricity tariffs involved people from all segments of society and had achieved significant public gains. He stressed the importance of timely dialogue to resolve issues peacefully.
The press conference was attended by lawyers and social figures, including Sardar Azeem Advocate, Chaudhry Yousaf Advocate, and Muhammad Amin Baig. Participants reaffirmed their commitment to public welfare, fundamental rights, and the rule of law.