AJK Government Bans JAAC, Declares Group a Proscribed Organisation Ahead of Planned Strike

MUZAFFARABAD: The Government of Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) on Friday officially declared the Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC) a proscribed organisation, placing it under the First Schedule of the Azad Jammu and Kashmir Anti-Terrorism Act, 2014.

According to a notification issued by the AJK Home Department, the government accused the group of engaging in activities that threaten the peace, security, and stability of the region. The notification alleged that JAAC had been involved in actions that created fear among the public, promoted unrest, and contributed to a sense of insecurity across society.

The order stated that, following approval from the President of AJK, the organisation—also known as the Jammu Kashmir Joint Awami Action Committee (JK-JAAC), Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC), and Awami Action Committee (AAC)—had been formally included in the list of proscribed organisations under the Anti-Terrorism Act.

The move comes amid escalating tensions over JAAC’s call for a wheel-jam strike scheduled for June 9. Authorities have criticized the group for refusing to engage with official dialogue mechanisms and have accused it of attempting to disrupt the democratic process ahead of the upcoming Legislative Assembly elections.

The controversy intensified because the planned strike coincides with the date set by the AJK Election Commission for candidates to begin filing nomination papers for the July 27 general elections.

Earlier in the day, the AJK government issued a travel advisory urging tourists and visitors to avoid travelling to the region between June 5 and June 20. Those already present in Azad Kashmir were advised to leave immediately to avoid any potential inconvenience or security concerns arising from the planned protests.

JAAC’s latest campaign is centered on its demand to abolish the 12 seats reserved in the AJK Legislative Assembly for refugees from Indian-administered Jammu and Kashmir who migrated to Pakistan after 1947. The group argues that these seats have historically been used by major political parties to influence government formation in Muzaffarabad.

However, the AJK Legislative Assembly recently reaffirmed its support for retaining the refugee seats and called for the electoral process to continue as scheduled.

In anticipation of possible unrest, the federal government has reinforced security arrangements across the territory. Additional paramilitary forces have been deployed to support local law enforcement agencies and prevent any repeat of the violent clashes witnessed during previous JAAC-led protests.

AJK Inspector General of Police Captain (Retired) Liaqat Ali Malik formally requested more than 14,000 additional security personnel from the federal government to maintain law and order from June 7 to June 21. Videos circulating on social media showed convoys of security forces entering Muzaffarabad and other key locations as preparations intensified ahead of the strike.

Police officials have emphasized that their primary responsibility is to protect public and private property and ensure the safety of residents. Authorities have urged citizens to avoid unlawful gatherings and pursue any grievances through peaceful and democratic channels.

Meanwhile, concerns have emerged over the possibility of internet and mobile data restrictions during the protest period. Similar communication shutdowns were imposed during JAAC demonstrations last year, severely affecting businesses, educational institutions, freelancers, and daily communications. However, no official announcement regarding the suspension of internet services had been made at the time of reporting.

The growing uncertainty has already affected educational activities. The University of Azad Jammu and Kashmir announced the postponement of its Spring 2026 examinations, which were scheduled to begin on June 8, citing the evolving security situation and the planned strike.

With security forces on high alert, political tensions rising, and strict precautionary measures being implemented, Azad Jammu and Kashmir is preparing for a potentially turbulent period in the days leading up to the June 9 protest.