MUZAFFARABAD: In a significant development for institutional accountability and public grievance redressal, the Government of Azad Jammu & Kashmir has appointed Muhammad Arif Khan, Advocate Supreme Court of AJK, as the Mohtasib (Ombudsman) of Azad Jammu & Kashmir.
The appointment has been made by the President of Azad Jammu & Kashmir under Section 3 of the Establishment of the Office of Mohtasib (Ombudsman) Act, 1992. Mr. Khan hails from Village Bhangarbani, Tehsil and District Haveli (Kahuta), AJK, and brings with him extensive legal experience, professional integrity, and a strong reputation within the legal fraternity.
This appointment comes after the office of the Mohtasib remained vacant for a considerable period, affecting the pace of institutional grievance redressal in the region. The filling of this constitutional post is being viewed as a landmark step in ongoing efforts to strengthen ombudsman institutions and reinforce accountability mechanisms.
The Mohtasib Secretariat has extended heartfelt congratulations and best wishes to Mr. Muhammad Arif Khan, expressing confidence that under his leadership, the institution will further consolidate its mandate of ensuring good governance, addressing maladministration, and providing timely and effective relief to the citizens of Azad Jammu & Kashmir.
Observers describe the appointment as one of the key milestones in the broader struggle to revitalize oversight institutions and restore public trust in administrative systems. It is hoped that Mr. Khan’s tenure will advance the cause of justice, transparency, and responsive governance across AJK.
