Muzaffarabad: Tensions escalated in Azad Jammu and Kashmir as authorities arrested around 72 people during a series of operations launched after the government imposed a ban on the Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC) under anti-terrorism laws. The developments come ahead of a planned protest call scheduled for June 9.
Security officials said police carried out the arrests over the past 18 hours. They said the operation aimed to maintain law and order and prevent any disruption in public peace.
Authorities also recovered weapons, communication devices, and documents during raids in different areas. Officials claimed that some of the seized material indicated organised planning related to protests and possible disruption of public services.
Police further alleged that certain individuals maintained suspected external contacts. Investigators continue to examine both digital and physical evidence collected during the operations.
Officials said early findings suggested plans to block roads and damage public property. They added that law enforcement agencies would complete the investigation under relevant laws.
Authorities stressed that the state supports peaceful protest and democratic expression. However, they warned that violence, vandalism, or disruption of daily life would not be tolerated under any circumstances.
Police urged citizens to remain calm and avoid spreading rumours on social media. They also advised people to stay away from sensitive areas and cooperate with law enforcement during ongoing operations.
Government Defends Ban on JAAC
AJK Prime Minister Chaudhry Faisal Mumtaz Rathore defended the decision to ban JAAC. He said the group’s actions had created concerns for law and order.
He stated that most agreed points between the government and JAAC had already been implemented or partially addressed. However, some issues still required further dialogue.
The prime minister said delays in negotiations contributed to the current situation. He added that the government could not allow instability during a sensitive political period.
Rathore also said elections must proceed on schedule. He called on all political groups to act responsibly and avoid actions that could escalate tensions.
He further noted that earlier talks had made progress but collapsed at a critical stage. According to him, this breakdown increased political friction in the region.
JAAC Rejects Allegations
JAAC leaders rejected the government’s claims. They said the action against their members was unjustified.
The group alleged that authorities suspended internet services in several areas. They also claimed that raids targeted their supporters. These claims remain unverified by independent sources.
JAAC leadership insisted that their movement remains peaceful. They confirmed that the planned protest march would proceed after internal consultations.
They also urged supporters to avoid violence and protect public and private property. The leadership said their movement focuses on peaceful demands and constitutional rights.
The group appealed to overseas Kashmiris and human rights organisations to raise awareness about the situation. It also asked supporters not to spread unverified information.
Read more:AJK Arrests 72 in Widening Crackdown on JAAC Ahead of Planned Protest
Communication Disruptions and Rising Concerns
Internet services continued to face disruption across parts of AJK following the protest announcement. Users reported connectivity issues in multiple districts.
The communication slowdown raised concerns about access to information and digital services in the region. Observers said prolonged outages could affect daily life and business activities.
Political analysts and local leaders criticised the growing tensions. They warned that the ban and arrests could deepen instability if dialogue does not resume.
Some leaders also argued that applying anti-terrorism laws to political groups could increase mistrust among stakeholders.
Situation Remains Tense Ahead of Protest Date
Security remains tight across key districts as authorities prepare for possible demonstrations. Police presence has increased in sensitive areas.
Officials said they are monitoring the situation closely and will respond according to the law if needed. They reiterated that peaceful protest is allowed, but disruption will not be tolerated.
As June 9 approaches, both the government and JAAC maintain firm positions. Dialogue efforts may determine whether tensions ease or escalate further in the coming days.
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