Authorities Place Group on Proscribed Organisations List
The Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) government has declared the Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC) a proscribed organisation and formally placed it on the First Schedule of the region’s Anti-Terrorism Act 2014.
According to a notification issued by the Home Department on Friday, authorities accused the group of activities deemed harmful to public order, peace and security. The notification stated that JAAC had engaged in actions that allegedly created unrest, promoted fear among citizens and contributed to instability within the region.
Officials said the decision was approved under Section 12 of the Anti-Terrorism Act after authorities reviewed the organisation’s activities. The ban applies to the group under various names, including Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC) and Awami Action Committee (AAC).
Furthermore, authorities criticized the organisation for refusing to engage with official committees established to address its concerns through institutional dialogue.
Security Measures Intensify as Strike Date Nears
Meanwhile, tensions have increased ahead of JAAC’s planned wheel-jam strike on June 9, the same day candidates are scheduled to begin filing nomination papers for the July 27 general elections in AJK.
The group has been campaigning against the 12 legislative assembly seats reserved for refugees from Indian-administered Jammu and Kashmir who settled in Pakistan after 1947. JAAC argues that mainstream political parties use these seats to influence government formation in Muzaffarabad.
However, the AJK Legislative Assembly recently reaffirmed its support for the reserved seats and called for the electoral process to continue according to schedule.
In response to growing concerns, federal authorities have deployed additional security personnel to the region. The AJK Inspector General of Police formally requested 14,000 extra personnel to help maintain law and order between June 7 and June 21. Video footage circulating online showed security convoys entering Muzaffarabad ahead of the planned demonstrations.
Additionally, the government advised non-residents to avoid travelling to the region and urged current visitors to leave as a precautionary measure.
Speculation has also emerged regarding possible restrictions on internet and mobile data services during the strike period. Similar measures during previous protests disrupted businesses, educational activities and communications across the region.
Separately, the University of AJK postponed its Spring 2026 examinations, citing concerns related to the planned strike and the prevailing security situation.
