The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) and Amnesty International have voiced serious concerns regarding recent government actions in Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK). These include the designation of the Jammu and Kashmir Joint Awami Action Committee (JKJAAC) as a banned organisation, restrictions on communication services, and multiple arrests connected to ongoing protests in the region.
On June 5, the AJK government officially proscribed the JAAC, accusing it of involvement in terrorism-related activities and actions detrimental to peace and security. The following day, authorities intensified their response by arresting several JAAC leaders and activists across various locations. The situation escalated dramatically after a violent protest in Rawalakot, which resulted in the deaths of at least four law enforcement officers and seven civilians, as per official figures.
In reaction to the unrest, the federal government deployed paramilitary forces to assist local police, while officials advised travelers to postpone visits to AJK until June 20 as a precaution. HRCP, in a statement on June 9, called for the immediate reduction of tensions and demanded an impartial investigation into all reported fatalities and injuries. The commission warned that banning popular movements risks shrinking democratic space and emphasized that demands for constitutional or political reforms should be pursued through peaceful, democratic channels rather than confrontation or violence.
Similarly, Amnesty International raised concerns about the impact of these measures on freedom of association, access to information, and the management of demonstrations within AJK. On June 9, the government announced a reward of Rs10 million for information leading to the capture of four wanted JAAC members. The Home Department instructed police to implement this reward system while maintaining the confidentiality of informants amid escalating tensions following the deadly clashes.
Amnesty described the JAAC as a grassroots organisation advocating for economic and political rights in the region and criticized its classification under anti-terrorism laws. The rights group highlighted the suspension of internet and mobile services, travel restrictions, and the arrest of activists linked to the group. More than 100 individuals associated with the JAAC were reportedly detained during operations on June 6 and 7. Amnesty also referenced the violent confrontations in Rawalakot that caused casualties among both protesters and security forces, urging independent investigations and adherence to international standards regarding the use of force.
These developments followed a breakdown in negotiations between the JKJAAC and the government over proposed electoral arrangements in AJK in late May. After talks failed, the JAAC announced plans for a region-wide strike and protests. The government’s subsequent ban on the group was described by JAAC as an attempt to suppress dissent and undermine public order.
In a related intelligence operation in Muzaffarabad, security forces arrested five suspects and recovered weapons and electronic equipment, with investigations ongoing. The unrest has also exposed internal rifts within the JAAC, as prominent member Syed Faisal Gilani distanced himself from the group, while others maintain the movement’s peaceful intentions.
Amid the escalating tensions, AJK Prime Minister Raja Faisal Mumtaz Rathore has called for dialogue. Political parties and human rights organisations have urged restraint, thorough investigations, and renewed negotiations ahead of the upcoming July 27 elections.
