The Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) government has banned the Jammu Kashmir Joint Awami Action Committee (JK-JAAC) under anti-terrorism laws ahead of a planned June 9 protest. To maintain order, authorities have requested 14,000 additional law enforcement personnel from federal and provincial agencies to manage potential unrest.
Security Surge and Anti-Terrorism Ban
The AJK Home Department issued a formal notification placing the JK-JAAC—also known by the names Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC) and Awami Action Committee (AAC)—under the First Schedule of the AJK Anti-Terrorism Act, 2014. This decision follows presidential approval and aims to curb activities the state deems harmful to law and order.
“The Government of AJ&K has reasonable grounds to believe that Jammu Kashmir Joint Awami Action Committee (JK-JAAC)… is engaged in terrorism,” the notification stated.
The government further alleged the organization acted in a manner “prejudicial to the peace and security of the State” and was involved in “creating anarchy in the State by intimidating the public.”
To manage the anticipated protests and long march, AJK Inspector General of Police Captain (retd) Liaquat Malik has requested significant reinforcement. The request includes 6,000 personnel from the Frontier Constabulary, 5,000 from Pakistan Rangers, 2,000 from Islamabad Police, and 1,000 from Sindh Police for a 15-day deployment from June 7 to June 21.
Political Tension and Electoral Stakes
The security crackdown coincides with a critical political window, as the June 9 protest date overlaps with the start of nomination filings for the July 27 general elections. Authorities have warned that any attempt to disrupt the process could be viewed as an attack on democratic norms.
Defence Minister Khawaja Asif has also weighed in, rejecting a demand to abolish 12 seats reserved for Pakistan-based Kashmiris in the AJK Legislative Assembly. In a post on X, he stated that raising such a demand before elections amounted to sabotaging the democratic framework.
Meanwhile, the administration has issued a travel advisory for tourists and outsiders. Visitors are urged to avoid the region or leave immediately, with the advisory remaining in force from June 5 to June 20 to prevent “unexpected situation or inconvenience.”
What Could Happen Next
If the JK-JAAC proceeds with its planned wheel-jam strike and long march, the heavy deployment of security forces may lead to direct clashes. The presence of 60% anti-riot gear and 40% armed personnel suggests the state is prepared for significant resistance.
Furthermore, the committee’s continued boycott of institutional dialogue could lead to further political instability. If the protests disrupt the nomination process for the July 27 elections, it may create legal and administrative challenges for candidates and the electoral framework.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why was the JK-JAAC banned?
The AJK Home Department stated the group is allegedly engaged in terrorism and has acted in a manner that creates anarchy and insecurity within the state.
How many additional officers are being deployed?
The AJK government has requested 14,000 personnel, including members from the Frontier Constabulary, Pakistan Rangers, Islamabad Police, and Sindh Police.
What is the government’s stance on the committee’s demands?
Officials state that 35 of the 38 demands have already been implemented or accepted, and they argue that remaining issues require constitutional processes rather than street protests.
How should governments balance the right to public protest with the necessity of maintaining order during an election cycle?
