AJK authorities say legal action will continue against the banned Joint Awami Action Committee while maintaining that dialogue remains an option to resolve the ongoing political and security crisis.
The political standoff in Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) intensified after the government formally directed leaders of the banned Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC) to surrender to law enforcement authorities, warning that legal action would continue against those involved in recent unrest.
The announcement came during a joint press briefing by senior civil and police officials, who stated that individuals voluntarily surrendering would be treated in accordance with established legal procedures. While reaffirming the government’s willingness to engage in dialogue, authorities emphasized that violations of law would not be ignored.
Officials accused JAAC members of involvement in violent attacks targeting police personnel and public property, claiming that such incidents had severely disrupted law and order across the region. Citizens were urged to avoid what authorities described as misleading protest campaigns and instead support efforts aimed at maintaining peace and stability.
According to the administration, 36 of the 38 demands previously agreed upon with JAAC have already been implemented, including electricity subsidies and other relief measures. Officials said the reforms required billions of rupees in government spending, placing a significant financial burden on the region’s resources.
However, authorities alleged that the group continued expanding its demands, creating new disputes and slowing the implementation process. The government also highlighted the unresolved issue of 12 reserved seats in the AJK Legislative Assembly, saying multiple proposals, including judicial review and political dialogue, were offered but rejected by JAAC.
Security officials reported that recent clashes resulted in the deaths of at least four police personnel and injuries to many others. Hundreds of suspects have been arrested, while dozens of criminal cases have been registered in connection with the violence.
Meanwhile, the AJK Prime Minister reiterated support for meaningful negotiations and mediation efforts, including engagement through religious leaders, to break the deadlock and restart talks. At the federal level, Pakistan’s Defence Minister warned against attempts to destabilize the region, stressing the need for unity and discipline.
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