Pakistan’s Information Minister Attaullah Tarar has accused a protest movement in Azad Kashmir of maintaining links with India. However, the Joint Awami Action Committee has not publicly responded to the allegations.
Government Alleges Foreign-Linked Propaganda Network
Speaking at a press conference on Sunday, Tarar said security agencies uncovered an alleged anti-Pakistan propaganda network. Furthermore, he claimed investigators traced funding and operational instructions to India.
According to Tarar, authorities arrested an individual providing digital marketing services during the investigation. He alleged investigators discovered a network using bot farms to amplify anti-state content on social media.
Tarar further claimed the suspect disclosed that much of the content related to the Joint Awami Action Committee. Consequently, he accused the group of attempting to weaken ties between Azad Kashmir and Pakistan.
The minister alleged the protest movement formed part of a broader conspiracy against Pakistan’s position on Kashmir. However, neither the Joint Awami Action Committee nor the Indian government immediately responded to the claims.
JAAC Continues Protest Campaign
The Joint Awami Action Committee previously focused on economic and governance reforms in Azad Kashmir. Recently, however, the group shifted its campaign towards abolishing 12 assembly seats reserved for refugees.
The organisation argues those seats allow Pakistan’s mainstream political parties to influence government formation. Meanwhile, thousands of JAAC supporters remain camped near Rawalakot ahead of a planned march.
The group intends to march towards Muzaffarabad on July 27, coinciding with general elections in parts of Azad Kashmir. However, JAAC has announced a boycott of the election.
Tarar also said major political parties continued holding large election rallies across Azad Kashmir. He argued that public participation demonstrated continued support for Pakistan despite the ongoing protests.
