The Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) Police have dismissed a coordinated misinformation campaign by the banned Jammu Kashmir Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC), rejecting social media claims that law enforcement agencies carried out shelling or opened fire at the sit-in in Rawalakot.
In a statement issued on Saturday, the AJK Police spokesperson said false reports had been circulating online since the morning, alleging that security forces launched an operation against protesters at the sit-in. The spokesperson categorically denied the claims, stating that no action had been taken against the protesters at the Eidgah site.
According to the police, individuals associated with the banned JAAC are using old videos to spread panic among the public and undermine confidence in state institutions and law enforcement agencies.
The statement further alleged that the group is resorting to misinformation after witnessing declining public support for the protest, a lack of public interest at the sit-in venue, and the departure of a large number of participants from the protest camp.
The AJK Police urged citizens and social media users to act responsibly by verifying news and videos before sharing them and to rely only on information from authentic sources. It also appealed to the public to avoid becoming part of misleading, hateful, or provocative online campaigns.
Reaffirming its commitment to maintaining peace and public safety, the police said ensuring law and order and protecting citizens remain its top priorities. The statement added that the force respects the constitutional and legal rights of every citizen and carries out all actions strictly in accordance with the law.
Earlier, the Indian media had increased its coverage of the banned Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC) after its movement failed to gain public support in Azad Kashmir.
According to the details, the committee’s movement was rejected by the local population and some Indian media outlets have started promoting its narrative.
After the group failed to receive public support, Indian media began broadcasting reports containing what are being described as false and misleading claims in favour of the committee, as per the reports.
According to the report, some Indian television channels used footage from Rawalakot and aired it with headlines such as “PoK NOT PART OF PAKISTAN” and slogans against state institutions.
The report further informs that the footage was presented in a misleading way to support a particular narrative.
The report says that despite the committee’s lack of public support, some Indian media outlets have continued broadcasting reports aimed at influencing public opinion.
It also claims that India did not achieve the expected results from its alleged support for the banned committee and that this has led to increased media attention on the issue.
The report further alleges that Republic TV aired what it describes as false and fabricated claims about Azad Kashmir.
According to the report, such media coverage is intended to create confusion and provoke public sentiments. It also disturbs the peaceful environment in Azad Kashmir.
Key leaders continue to quit banned JAAC
According to the details, the people in Azad Kashmir did not support the committee’s narrative, and several individuals have announced they have left the banned committee.
Recently, JAAC key member Khawaja Anees announced that he is parting ways with the organisation.
He said that the movement, which began in the name of public rights, has crossed its limits by targeting the state and its institutions. He said that any statement against Pakistan or state institutions is unacceptable. “I appeal to the youth of Kashmir to stay away from this banned committee, and I clearly announce my separation from this anti-state Joint Action Committee,” he added.
Recent media coverage has raised questions about the committee’s alleged links and support, the report adds. According to the report, the purpose of the alleged campaign is to influence public opinion and promote a specific narrative.
