Written by Sardar Shaukat Mahmood Khan.
Azad Jammu and Kashmir has lost a dynamic, active, tolerant
and people-friendly leader whose absence has created a deep sense of grief
across the region. With the passing of Barrister Sultan Mahmood Chaudhry, the
Kashmiri people have lost not only a seasoned statesman but also a bold and
unwavering voice for their just struggle for freedom and the right to
self-determination at the global level. His demise has left behind a sorrow and
void that will not be easy to fill for a long time.
Barrister Sultan Mahmood Chaudhry was among those rare
political figures who brought dignity, decency, tolerance and purpose into
politics. He was a shrewd and farsighted leader, yet more importantly, he was
someone who genuinely felt the pain of the Kashmiri people and transformed that
pain into a powerful voice for their rights.
His entire political journey revolved around the Kashmir
cause. From the very beginning, he chose to raise the Kashmir issue beyond
local boundaries and took it to international platforms, making the
independence of Kashmir not merely a slogan but the central mission of his
life. Until his last breath, he remained committed to this dream, leaving this
world with the cause of Kashmir close to his heart.
His relationship with the people of Azad Kashmir went far
beyond electoral politics. It was rooted in trust, affection, tolerance and a
deep sense of responsibility. Time and again, the people placed their
confidence in him, reflecting the fact that he was a leader who ruled hearts
rather than merely holding offices. Whether serving as Prime Minister of Azad
Jammu and Kashmir, Leader of the Opposition or President of the state, he
carried out every responsibility with intelligence, seriousness, honesty and
grace. His most defining trait remained his tireless struggle and unwavering
commitment to the Kashmir cause.
At international forums and influential global chambers, he
consistently highlighted the fundamental right of the Kashmiri people to
self-determination, raising a dignified, reasoned and forceful voice against
India’s illegal occupation and the inhuman atrocities committed in occupied
Jammu and Kashmir. His speeches were a blend of emotion and logic, pain and
hope.
Throughout his political career, Barrister Sultan Mahmood
Chaudhry placed the dignity of the state above personal or political interests.
He viewed differences of opinion not as enmity but as an essential beauty of
democracy. Political harmony, institutional balance and belief in dialogue
remained the cornerstones of his approach. This is why even his political
opponents acknowledged his wisdom, experience and decency, despite ideological
differences.
Another shining aspect of his personality was his simplicity
and humility. Despite holding the highest constitutional offices, he remained
deeply connected to the struggles of the common people. Tolerance and mutual
respect never left his conduct. His long political struggle stands as a guiding
example for the younger generation, demonstrating how politics can be pursued
with principles, ethics and a genuine spirit of service.
In his absence, the political environment of Azad Kashmir
feels subdued and incomplete. His death is not just the loss of an individual
but the end of a positive political vision, an ideological struggle and a
dignified, tolerant style of leadership. Yet his political, social and
diplomatic services, along with his relentless struggle and powerful voice for
the Kashmiri people’s right to self-determination, will continue to live on in
history.
May Allah Almighty grant the departed soul a high place in
His mercy, forgive his shortcomings and elevate his ranks. May He also grant
patience and strength to his son, Minister of State Chaudhry Yasir Sultan, and
to all the bereaved family members and the entire Kashmiri nation to bear this
immense loss. Ameen.
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