Muzaffarabad, June 25: Pakistan has intensified its crackdown on the banned Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC) in Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK), extending action beyond civilian supporters to include serving military personnel, retired soldiers and government employees. The move comes amid continuing unrest across the region and ahead of the JAAC’s planned “Muzaffarabad March” on Friday.
Over 100 Serving and Retired Military Personnel Under Scanner
According to official documents from the PoJK Home Department, action has been initiated against more than 100 serving and retired Pakistani military personnel accused of supporting the banned Joint Awami Action Committee, participating in its activities or providing financial assistance.
The documents recommend suspension of pensions for retired military personnel allegedly linked to the organisation, while serving soldiers and officers could face departmental inquiries as well as legal proceedings.
Government Employees Also Face Action
The crackdown has also widened to include government employees, including teachers, engineers and officials from various departments. Authorities have accused them of supporting the banned organisation and have initiated departmental investigations and disciplinary proceedings.
The documents indicate that Pakistan has launched a broader campaign targeting alleged supporters of the JAAC across Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir.
Protests Turn Deadly
The latest action follows months of anti-government protests across PoJK over political representation and governance issues. According to reports from the region, the demonstrations have left more than two dozen people dead and over 500 injured during clashes with security forces.
Pakistan Confirms Over 400 Arrests
Pakistan has officially acknowledged that more than 400 leaders and activists associated with the Joint Awami Action Committee have been arrested as part of the ongoing crackdown.
Authorities maintain that the organisation was banned over concerns related to public order and security, while JAAC supporters have described the government’s actions as an attempt to suppress dissent.
Lockdown, Communication Curbs Continue
Lockdown measures and communication restrictions remain in force in several parts of PoJK, including Rawalakot. Meanwhile, the Joint Awami Action Committee has announced a “Muzaffarabad March” on Friday, prompting authorities to tighten security across the region amid fears of fresh unrest.
Analysts say the expanding crackdown, particularly against serving and retired military personnel, reflects Islamabad’s growing concern over the spread of the protest movement within sections of the state’s own institutions.