The Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) government has declared a Rs10 million reward for anyone providing credible information that results in the arrest of four wanted leaders linked to the recently banned Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC).
The President of AJK has authorized this reward for information leading to the capture of Shaukat Nawaz Mir, Umar Nazir Kashmiri, Khawaja Mehran Arshad, and Sardar Aman Khan. The state home department has instructed the inspector general of police to promptly enforce the reward scheme, assuring that the identities of informants will remain strictly confidential.
This announcement comes in the wake of violent clashes in the region that claimed at least seven lives, amid conflicting accounts regarding the casualties and underlying governance issues. Last week, the AJK government outlawed the JAAC, accusing it of terrorism, inciting hatred, and fomenting unrest throughout the state.
Following the ban, security forces launched an intelligence-driven operation in the Chehla area of Muzaffarabad, arresting five suspects. The raid yielded laptops, mobile phones, and various communication devices. Initial forensic analysis uncovered a significant weapons cache, including seven automatic firearms, multiple grenades, and military-grade equipment.
Authorities also seized maps of sensitive installations and alleged attack plans, with evidence suggesting possible links to hostile foreign intelligence agencies.
Meanwhile, the JAAC experienced internal turmoil as Syed Faisal Gilani, a senior member, publicly severed ties with the group. Gilani condemned the recent violence in Rawalakot, stating he had joined the movement to serve public interests but accused the organisation of straying from its original mission and adopting violent rhetoric rejected by the Kashmiri people.
In a related development, the JAAC called for a strike on June 9 to protest the government’s alleged breach of an agreement regarding the cancellation of refugee seats in the AJK legislature. However, the strike had little impact on daily life in major cities such as Muzaffarabad, Mirpur, Rawalakot, Bagh, and Kotli. Markets, schools, government offices, and transport services continued to operate normally.
Residents across various districts distanced themselves from the shutdown, highlighting that forced closures disproportionately affect daily wage earners and harm the local economy. Community members urged that political disputes be resolved through peaceful dialogue rather than confrontations that could be exploited by hostile actors.
Contrary to official narratives, Umar Nazir Kashmiri, one of the wanted leaders, insisted the movement remains peaceful and expressed a preference to “emerge with honour” rather than surrender to authorities.
Meanwhile, the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) expressed deep concern over the escalating violence and loss of lives among civilians and law enforcement personnel, calling on all parties to prioritize peace and stability in the region.
