ISLAMABAD: Pakistan on Monday strongly rejected statements from British parliamentarians and diaspora members concerning the security situation in Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK), labeling them as “irresponsible and ill-informed.” The Foreign Office issued a firm response following comments by British MPs about the ongoing crackdown on protesters in the region, where at least seven civilians and four security personnel have died in the past 48 hours.
The Foreign Office urged these individuals to avoid meddling in Pakistan’s and AJK’s internal affairs, suggesting they focus on contributing positively to their countries of residence instead. This response came after violent confrontations over the weekend in Rawalakot between police forces and the banned Jammu Kashmir Joint Awami Action Committee (JKJAAC).
Specifically addressing British MPs who raised concerns about communication blackouts and mass detentions, the Foreign Office criticized their remarks as showing a lack of understanding of the region’s complex historical context. It emphasized that Pakistan is a sovereign, democratic republic that upholds the principle of non-interference.
While affirming that both the Pakistani and AJK governments respect constitutional rights to peaceful assembly and freedom of expression, the spokesperson stressed that the recent demonstrations had escalated into criminal violence. The government accused violent elements of damaging public infrastructure and services, highlighting the siege of the Combined Military Hospital (CMH) in Rawalakot as a particularly unacceptable act that endangered civilian lives.
In a notable appeal to the British government, the Foreign Office called on London to monitor and caution individuals within the UK who are allegedly supporting proscribed organizations operating in Pakistan. It urged the British authorities to educate such supporters to respect Pakistan’s democratic processes and the rule of law.
Meanwhile, Rawalakot remains under tight security, with local authorities continuing the suspension of mobile data services to prevent further mobilization by the JKJAAC ahead of a planned strike on June 9. Over the last 36 hours, intense clashes between police and JKJAAC supporters have resulted in the deaths of at least 11 people, including four security personnel.
On Monday, the AJK police chief announced that a late-night operation successfully cleared protesters who had besieged the military hospital in Rawalakot, restoring control over the area.
