Talking to a delegation representing the Kashmir Refugee Action Committee led by its chairman Gohar Ahmad Kashmiri, which called on him here at the Presidency, Sardar Masood said resolution of the refugee problems was on priority of the AJK government and the people of Azad Kashmir and Pakistan always stood by their refugee brothers and sisters to facilitate them.
Members of the delegation thanked the AJK president for effectively advocating the Kashmir issue and helping raise the profile of this conflict at the international forums.
President Masood said,"We will never be intimidated by India’s machinations and manoeuvres in suppressing the freedom movement. The dark night of Indian oppression in Indian Occupied Kashmir will soon come to an end and the people of Indian occupied Kashmir (IoK) will continue their struggle for ascertaining their right to self-determination.”
The delegation informed the president of their issues which included: firstly, assurance that the AJK government will fully implement the 6pc recruitment quota notified for the refugees; secondly, resolving issues of fee reimbursement of refugee students under the Prime Minister Pakistan Fee Reimbursement Program; thirdly, monetary assistance to students studying in medical colleges of Azad Kashmir and Pakistan; fourthly, complete implementation of the Charter of Demand presented by the Refugee Action Committee; and lastly, providing homes for the refugees at satellite town.
The members of the delegation expressed their satisfaction over the increase of living allowance announced by the Government of AJK and the revival of two special seats for refugees at Muzaffarabad Medical College.
They also requested the President that under the true spirit of quota the recruitment of refugees in the Police Department be made regular instead of temporary basis.
The President reassured that steps would be taken to ensure their demands are fulfilled.