Inspector General of Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) Captain (retd) Liaquat Ali Malik spoke to media representatives on Tuesday about the protest situation and law and order.
He also spoke about the activities of the banned Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC).
What damage was done during protests
Talking about the damage and violence during the banned JAAC’s protests, the AJK IG said that roads built at a cost of billions of rupees were dug up and damaged. He also said that trees were cut down and handed over to the timber mafia.
Threats to close markets
Captain (retd) Liaquat Ali Malik also said that some people linked to the JAAC had been talking about closing bazaars and markets.
He said the protests have affected tourism and educational activities in Azad Kashmir. This has also caused difficulties for ordinary citizens and the business community.
Deaths and injuries among forces
The AJK IG said security personnel were killed by protesters during the protests. He said hundreds of personnel were also injured.
He alleged that elements of the banned JAAC use women as shields and fire at security forces while hiding behind them.
Forces showed restraint
Captain (retd) Liaquat Ali Malik said that the forces showed patience and restraint instead of responding by firing.
He questioned how people carrying modern and prohibited weapons, including M4 and M7 rifles, could be part of a peaceful protest.
AJK IG talks about peaceful protest
The AJK IG said that affecting people’s livelihoods, killing or kidnapping innocent people and attacking security posts with hand grenades cannot be considered a peaceful protest.
He said the right to protest can be recognised. However, violence, damage to government property and attacks on law enforcement agencies cannot be called a peaceful protest.
