Authorities in Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) have launched a large-scale crackdown against members and supporters of the Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC) following the government’s decision to ban the organisation under anti-terrorism laws. The operation has resulted in the arrest of approximately 72 individuals, while JAAC leaders have strongly rejected the allegations and reaffirmed that their planned long march on June 9 will proceed as scheduled.
According to an official statement issued by AJK Police, the crackdown was initiated to maintain law and order and ensure the safety of citizens across the region. The action followed the government’s decision to declare JAAC a banned organisation, accusing it of promoting hatred, creating unrest, and engaging in activities deemed harmful to public order ahead of the announced protest movement.
Police officials stated that during the operation, authorities recovered weapons, communication devices, and documents described as suspicious in nature. Investigators also claimed to have seized material allegedly linked to plans aimed at disrupting public order, damaging public and private property, and encouraging hostility against state institutions.
The police further alleged that preliminary investigations indicated possible contacts with foreign individuals, although inquiries into the recovered materials remain ongoing. Law enforcement agencies stated that digital evidence and other information obtained during the raids are being examined in accordance with legal procedures.
According to authorities, early findings suggested that certain elements intended to use organised protests as a means to create instability, obstruct daily life, influence the electoral process, and engage in activities viewed as unconstitutional and violent.
The Inspector General of Police emphasized that the state respects peaceful protest, constitutional demands, and lawful expression. However, he maintained that violence, incitement, the use of weapons, road blockades, destruction of property, and disruption to the public would not be tolerated under any circumstances.
Police officials also confirmed that those arrested during the crackdown would face investigations and legal proceedings under relevant laws. Citizens were urged to remain calm, avoid spreading rumours or inflammatory content, cooperate with authorities, and stay away from sensitive areas and unlawful gatherings.
Meanwhile, Azad Jammu and Kashmir Prime Minister Chaudhry Faisal Mumtaz Rathore defended the government’s decision to ban JAAC, stating that the move had become unavoidable due to the evolving situation. Speaking to the media, he said that progress had been made on many of the points previously agreed upon between the government and the action committee.
According to the prime minister, several commitments had already been fulfilled while others were partially implemented. He said the government had requested additional time to complete the remaining measures, but the opportunity was not provided. Rathore argued that the deteriorating situation was affecting ordinary citizens and that authorities could not permit conditions to escalate into chaos.
He also stressed the importance of maintaining stability ahead of elections scheduled for July 27 and called on political parties and citizens to act responsibly. Addressing concerns about possible external involvement, the prime minister stated that regardless of whether foreign actors were directly involved, instability in the region ultimately benefited those seeking to exploit the Kashmir issue.
On the other hand, JAAC leadership categorically rejected the allegations made against the organisation. JAAC leader Shaukat Nawaz Mir claimed that internet services had been disrupted across various parts of the region and alleged that raids were being conducted to arrest committee members.
Mir further alleged that committee member Umar Nazir had been attacked in Rawalakot and that activist Shazib Habib had lost his life amid the ongoing tensions. Despite the crackdown, he insisted that the movement remained peaceful and focused on securing legitimate rights for the people.
Reaffirming the committee’s resolve, Mir declared that the June 9 long march would continue as planned. He urged supporters to avoid damaging public or private property and emphasized that the movement’s objective was reform, justice, and the protection of rights rather than creating disorder.
The JAAC leader also appealed to the Kashmiri diaspora and international human rights organisations to draw attention to developments in the region. He advised supporters not to spread unverified reports, including rumours regarding arrests, and encouraged restraint, discipline, and respectful conduct during the ongoing situation.
The latest developments have intensified political tensions in Azad Jammu and Kashmir, drawing significant public attention both domestically and internationally. As authorities continue investigations and JAAC prepares for its planned protest, concerns remain over public order, civil liberties, and the potential impact of the unfolding events on regional stability.
