Bilawal Bhutto Responds to Joint Awami Action Committee

Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) Home Secretary Chaudhry Guftar Hussain stated on Wednesday that the proscribed Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC) has carried out coordinated campaigns using “baseless claims and propaganda” to incite people against the state.

Addressing the media, Hussain accused the banned organisation of using women and children as “human shields” after its leaders failed to uphold their promises. He added that JAAC’s actions were unethical and violated “Kashmiri values,” distracting students from their education.

The Home Secretary further stated that JAAC promoted anti-state narratives, antagonized people against the Pakistan Army, attempted to damage Pakistan and AJK’s historical relationship, restricted people’s movement by blocking roads, and disrupted the lives of ordinary citizens. He asserted that JAAC’s actual purpose is to damage AJK’s peace, economy, and law and order, not to protect people’s rights.

Hussain vowed that the state would continue to take necessary measures to maintain peace, law and order, and citizens’ safety. He noted that provocative actions have always been initiated by JAAC, despite the outfit blaming state institutions, and that these groups are not hesitant to attack unarmed citizens.

The senior AJK official also mentioned that JAAC leaders play the victim card when their workers are harmed. Hussain reaffirmed that general elections in AJK would proceed as planned on July 27, with election campaigns ongoing. He appreciated political parties for campaigning in Poonch division.

On Tuesday, clashes in Poonch division resulted in the martyrdom of two law enforcers and the loss of seven JAAC activists. Authorities have begun arrests, and protest permissions will not be granted. Hussain concluded that attempts to tarnish the Pakistan and AJK relationship would remain unsuccessful.