Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) Home Secretary Chaudhry Guftar Hussain on July 15 alleged that the proscribed Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC) has been engaging in coordinated disinformation campaigns to instigate people against the state. 

During a press briefing, Hussain outlined various actions by JAAC, which he said were contrary to Kashmiri values and unethical.

According to Hussain, the banned organisation utilised women and children as human shields, a tactic emerging after the group’s leaders reportedly became indifferent and reneged on their commitments. The Home Secretary criticised the JAAC for diverting students from their studies, thereby risking their futures, and for blocking roads, which severely hampered civilian movement and daily life.

Hussain accused the JAAC of promoting anti-state narratives, inciting antagonism against the Pakistan Army, and attempting to weaken the historical bonds between Pakistan and AJK. He stated that these actions suggest the group’s primary aim is to disrupt AJK’s peace, economy, and law and order rather than advocating for people’s rights.

Hussain announced that the general elections in AJK would proceed as scheduled on July 27. He commended the political parties for their ongoing campaigning efforts across the region, including in the Poonch division.