The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting has formally protested against a foreign website for publishing misleading news that claimed food-carrying vehicles were being blocked in Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) during ongoing protests. The ministry condemned the report for relying on unverified allegations and ignoring official facts and statements.
In a significant development, the ministry highlighted that this was not an isolated case, pointing out a recurring pattern of unsubstantiated claims being circulated. It emphasized the urgent need for corrective action to prevent the spread of such misinformation.
Meanwhile, Inspector General of Police Captain (retd) Liaqat Ali Malik also dismissed the false propaganda about the situation in AJK, describing misinformation and fabricated reports as major challenges in today’s digital age. Speaking at a press conference, Malik warned that malicious actors were deliberately spreading deceptive narratives, aided by advances in artificial intelligence that facilitate the creation of false content to mislead the public.
His remarks came shortly after the Jammu Kashmir Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC) was banned on June 5 under the Anti-Terrorism Act (ATA), following violent protests in AJK. The ban was imposed just days before the group’s planned protest on June 9, which sought to abolish 12 seats reserved for refugees from Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK) who migrated to Pakistan after 1947.
Malik stressed that fabricated news has become one of the most significant challenges of modern times and urged citizens to verify information before sharing it. He underscored the importance of confirming the authenticity of reports circulating on various platforms to combat misinformation.
The police chief specifically criticized a foreign broadcaster’s report, labeling its claims as baseless and contrary to established facts. He firmly rejected allegations that vehicles carrying food supplies had been stopped, calling the accusations unfounded.
Instead, Malik revealed that members of the proscribed organization were responsible for stopping goods vehicles, looting their cargo, and intimidating drivers in certain areas, actions that have exacerbated difficulties for residents in parts of AJK. He assured that all entry and exit routes to AJK remain open, with police working closely with district administration to keep roads accessible for the public.
However, he acknowledged that some areas of Rawalakot continue to experience disruptions. Reaffirming the commitment of law enforcement, Malik stated that the AJK Police remain dedicated to safeguarding the lives and property of the public amid ongoing challenges.
