The Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) government has banned the Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC), labeling it a “proscribed organization” under the Azad Jammu and Kashmir Anti-Terrorism Act (ATA), 2014. The decision follows the committee’s call for a protest on June 9, a group known for spearheading mass demonstrations demanding economic relief and political reforms—some of which have escalated into violence, including fatalities during clashes with law enforcement in May 2024 and September 2025.
The Ban and Its Legal Basis
The official notification, issued by the AJK Home Department, cites “reasonable grounds” to believe the JAAC—also referred to as JK-JAAC or AAC—is engaged in terrorism, acts to undermine state security, and promotes public intimidation. The organization has been added to the First Schedule of the ATA, 2014, under Section 12, which allows the government to proscribe entities deemed threats to peace or security. The law, promulgated in July 2014, empowers authorities to restrict such groups’ activities, and assets.
In response, the JAAC dismissed the ban as a “confusion,” claiming it had “nothing to lose and the whole world left to gain.” The committee also condemned reports of mobile service suspensions in the region, calling them “economic murder” that would isolate 2.2 million Kashmiris from their communities. The JAAC described the shutdowns as “governmental terrorism,” framing them as a deliberate attempt to stifle dissent ahead of the protest.
Security Tightens Ahead of Elections
Amid heightened tensions, the Islamabad Police deployed 1,505 personnel to AJK on Friday, led by senior officers including one deputy inspector general, two senior superintendents of police, and four superintendents of police. The contingent, equipped with anti-riot gear and supported by counter-terrorism units, reflects a “special security plan” approved by the Islamabad Inspector General of Police, Nasir Rizvi. Reserve forces remain on standby as security is placed on high alert across the region.
The deployment coincides with the AJK Election Commission’s announcement that general elections for the AJK Legislative Assembly will be held on July 27. Authorities are emphasizing “transparent, orderly, and impartial” elections under judicial supervision, though the JAAC’s protest call and the refugee seat dispute loom as potential disruptions.
Defense Minister Weighs In on Electoral Process
Defence Minister Khawaja Asif criticized the JAAC’s demand to abolish the 12 refugee seats as an attempt to “disrupt the electoral process.” He argued that such issues should be addressed through democratic means—specifically, by presenting them to the public on July 27, the election date. Asif framed the demand as “blackmail,” insisting that voters should decide how representation is shaped.
He highlighted the historical context of Kashmiri migrants, particularly those from Jammu who settled in Sialkot after the 1947 partition, noting that “more than two hundred thousand migrants arrived… After sacrificing their lives.” Asif questioned how their rights could be denied, emphasizing that their “heavy price for freedom” justified their continued representation.
Unresolved Disputes and Political Boycotts
The refugee seat issue has been a flashpoint for months. Last October, JAAC-led protests over governance reforms turned violent, resulting in at least nine deaths, including three policemen. A subsequent agreement between the government and JAAC established a high-level committee to review the seats, but no resolution has been reached.
Earlier this year, the AJK government convened an All Parties Conference (APC) to address the issue, but the JAAC boycotted the event, citing the government’s rejection of its May 30 proposals. The JAAC had suggested either symbolic refugee representation until the Kashmir dispute is resolved or replacing the 12 assembly seats with four seats in the AJK Council. The APC’s rejection of changes outside the constitutional framework left the JAAC accusing participants of prioritizing their own interests over public demands.
What Could Happen Next
The JAAC’s planned June 9 protest in Muzaffarabad could become a test of the government’s resolve. If the demonstration proceeds, it may face heavy security measures, including potential internet and mobile service restrictions, which the JAAC has already condemned as economically damaging. A possible next step could be further crackdowns on dissent, including arrests or asset freezes under the ATA.
Politically, the refugee seat dispute may resurface in the July 27 elections, with parties likely to use the issue as a campaign rallying point. The JAAC’s boycott of the APC suggests it remains unwilling to engage in dialogue under current conditions, which could heighten tensions leading up to polling day. Meanwhile, the government’s decision to ban the JAAC may embolden other groups to push their demands through protests rather than negotiations.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Azad Jammu and Kashmir Anti-Terrorism Act (ATA), 2014?
The ATA is a law promulgated in July 2014 that allows the AJK government to proscribe organizations deemed involved in terrorism, activities prejudicial to state security, or public intimidation. Section 12 of the act enables the government to list such groups in its First Schedule, restricting their operations.
Why are the 12 refugee seats in the AJK Assembly controversial?
The 12 seats are reserved for Kashmiri refugees displaced from Indian-controlled Kashmir in 1947 and 1965. Critics argue the arrangement is unfair, as six seats represent refugees from Jammu (a larger population) and six from the Kashmir Valley (a smaller population). The JAAC has long demanded their abolition or reform, framing them as a relic of historical displacement rather than a legitimate form of representation.
How has the JAAC responded to the ban?
The JAAC described the ban as a “confusion” and claimed it had “nothing to lose and the whole world left to gain.” It also condemned mobile service shutdowns as “economic murder,” arguing they would isolate 2.2 million Kashmiris and constitute “governmental terrorism.” The group has not indicated whether it will stand down from its June 9 protest.
With elections approaching and tensions rising, how do you see the balance of power shifting between the AJK government and groups like the JAAC in the coming weeks?
