AJK Home Secretary Accuses JAAC of Inciting Violence, Using Propaganda
Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) Home Secretary Chaudhry Guftar Hussain has accused the proscribed Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC) of orchestrating coordinated social media campaigns fueled by "baseless claims and propaganda" to incite public unrest against the state. Speaking to the media on Wednesday, Hussain stated that the banned organization has resorted to using women and children as "human shields" after its leaders allegedly showed indifference and failed to fulfill promises. He characterized the JAAC's actions as unethical and a violation of "Kashmiri values," particularly condemning the distraction of students from their education. The home secretary detailed that the JAAC promotes anti-state narratives, antagonizes the Pakistan Army, attempts to damage Pakistan and AJK's historical relationship, and disrupts daily life by blocking roads. He asserted that the group's true aim is to undermine AJK's peace, economy, and law and order, rather than protect citizens' rights. Hussain vowed that the state would maintain peace and safety, noting that the JAAC initiates provocative actions while blaming state institutions and has attacked unarmed citizens. He also criticized JAAC leaders for playing the victim when their activists are harmed.
Hussain reaffirmed that general elections in AJK are scheduled for July 27, with ongoing campaigns across the region, including in Poonch division where recent clashes resulted in the deaths of two law enforcers and seven JAAC activists. He dismissed attempts to tarnish the Pakistan-AJK relationship as unsuccessful and questioned the JAAC's goals and alleged ties to anti-state forces due to its references to the Pakistan Army. AJK police spokesperson Irfan Masood Kashfi confirmed the police's commitment to protecting lives and property, detailing ongoing operations to clear road blockades initiated by the JAAC in Poonch. He vowed to continue operations until all roads are clear and no armed groups are permitted to challenge state institutions. Earlier, the home secretary had warned of strict action against "blackmailers" and stated that an operation was underway to clear obstacles at entry and exit points. A former JAAC member had previously urged the group to withdraw its protests, citing immense hardship and loss of life in Poonch due to the month-long agitation. Clashes on Saturday also resulted in one death and several injuries. The AJK government had declared the JAAC a proscribed organization on June 5, leading to a crackdown and arrests of its leaders and activists.
The AJK Home Secretary's statements highlight a significant conflict between state authorities and the Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC), framed by accusations of propaganda and incitement. From an analytical perspective, such disputes often stem from competing narratives over resource allocation, governance, or political representation, amplified by social media's reach. The state's response, characterized by law enforcement operations and strong rhetoric, aims to reassert control and delegitimize opposition. However, the cycle of protest, crackdown, and counter-accusations can destabilize the region, impacting economic activity and public trust. Future developments may depend on whether dialogue can be established to address underlying grievances or if the current trajectory of confrontation continues, potentially escalating tensions and affecting the planned July 27 elections.
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