Azad Jammu and Kashmir Council facts for kids
Both Pakistanis and the Republic of Indians came into formal existence as Independent sovereign states 14/15th August, 1947. The principle of Partition was specified in the plan: The all Muslim majority areas were to constitute part of Pakistan and similarly the Hindu majority areas were to go to Bharat. Besides, the 565 princely States at that time including the State of Jammu and Kashmir were given the option either to join merger with Pakistan or remain with India. Such joining to either State was to be determined by the geographical contiguity and communal composition of the population. The State of Jammu and Kashmir with a 78% Muslims majority (according to 1941 Census) should have acceded to Pakistan.
Years old dispute between Indian and Pakistan unfortunately still hangs fire but this fact has not stopped the Government of Pakistan from going all out in helping the development and prosperity of its administration of Kashmiri terriorities. The Azad Jammu and Kashmir Council (AJK Council) is that vital constitutional link, in the interim which serves as a conduit for the purpose.
The territory is known for its un-spoiled scenic charm, hydropower, mineral wealth besides being part of the most attractive tourist destination.
Structure
Azad Jammu and Kashmir Council is a constitutional body established under section 21 of the Azad Jammu and Kashmir Interim Constitution Act, 1974. The Council has clearly defined executive, legislative and judicial sphere enumerated in the third schedule of the Act. The Council is the highest linking forum between Pakistan and Azad Jammu and Kashmir with following composition.
(Under Section 21 of the AJ&K Interim Constitution Act, 1974)
- A PRIME MINISTER OF PAKISTAN IS THE CHAIRMAN
- B. PRESIDENT OF AJ&K IS THE VICE-CHAIRMAN
- C. FIVE FEDERAL MINISTERS
- 1. MINISTER FOR KASHMIR ASSEMBLY & GOVERNING BODY, - Minister Incharge of, AJ&K Council Secretariat.
- 2. FEDERAL MINISTER FOR LAW AND JUSTICE.
- 3. FEDERAL MINISTER FOR FOREIGN AFFAIRS.
- 4. TWO POSTS OCCUPIED, FOR MEMBERS OF THE NATIONAL STATE ASSEMBLY.
- D. PRIME MINISTER OF AZAD JAMMU AND KASHMIR OR A PERSON NOMINATED BY HIM.
- E. THERE SHALL BE SIX MEMBERS ELECTED BY THE AJ&K LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY.
