Rawalakot: Leaders of the Jammu and Kashmir United Movement have said that meaningful social reforms at the grassroots level are essential for achieving economic and political stability in the region. Addressing a press conference at Ghazi-e-Millat Press Club, party officials said that without organising youth and the public at the union council level, the dream of self-reliance cannot be realised.
JKUM Central Secretary General and former assembly candidate Engineer Kashif Jameel, District President Sardar Abdul Qayoom, General Secretary Aamir Zia, Finance Secretary Qari Amjad, Youth Movement President Muhammad Atif, and United Movement Students Federation Poonch President Abdullah Shafeeq along with Ramzan Hanif spoke at the press briefing.
They said the existing political system has weakened the foundations of society, pushing the common citizen into a cycle of hardship. They added that political instability over the past five years has created challenges that require a new policy framework focused on empowering people and building a foundation for the region’s prosperity.
The leaders stressed the need for planning at the union council level to address basic needs such as education, health and food security. They said JKUM aims to develop a model through which these essential requirements can be met locally.
During the press conference, the party announced the appointment of Sardar Ramzan Hanif as Election Commissioner for intra-party elections in District Poonch, and presented him with the notification. Engineer Kashif Jameel also announced the establishment of a JKUM-run rescue centre at Azad Pattan to provide immediate assistance in road accidents and other emergencies. He urged the AJK government to set up an official rescue centre at the same location without delay.
He said the party has intensified organisational activities across Azad Kashmir and constituted an election commission for intra-party polls in Poonch. He added that JKUM’s organisational model is intended to set an example for other political parties by promoting democratic processes and creating space for ordinary citizens.
Party officials said that young people lack opportunities and proper guidance, leading to widespread frustration. They called for the inclusion of capable and qualified individuals in the political system to modernise governance in line with contemporary needs. Without a dedicated youth policy, they warned, the region cannot progress.
They also expressed concern over the rising use of drugs in educational institutions, calling it alarming. The United Movement Students Federation has launched an anti-drug campaign to educate students at various institutions, which they said has already shown positive results. The party plans to organise an awareness seminar soon to further guide youth, noting that a healthy young generation is essential for a developed society.
The officials highlighted that JKUM’s welfare activities are expanding rapidly, with thousands of people benefiting so far. They added that assistance is regularly provided to victims of incidents along the Line of Control and that such welfare efforts will continue in the future.