The Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) government has taken a major decision to maintain law and order in the region by declaring the Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC) a proscribed organisation under the Anti-Terrorism Act 2014. The group has also been placed on the First Schedule of the law, officials confirmed.
Following the notification issued by the Home Department, security agencies have launched a high-level inquiry into the sources of funding behind the organisation. Authorities are investigating how the group allegedly financed protests and who supported its activities at local and international levels.
Officials said intelligence and law enforcement agencies are preparing lists of individuals and networks suspected of providing financial assistance. These include certain traders and other elements, and action against them is expected soon.
Investigators are also examining the use of digital channels, informal transfer systems, and banking routes to trace funds allegedly used to organise strikes, road blockades, and protests that disrupted public life.
Security sources further claimed that in the past, evidence had emerged suggesting external involvement in unrest-related activities in the region. They alleged that hostile propaganda networks had attempted to exploit the situation to portray a negative image of Pakistan internationally. However, these claims have not been independently verified.
The JAAC originally launched its movement with demands related to cheaper flour and reduced electricity prices. The government of Pakistan later announced a financial package of Rs 23 billion to address several of these concerns.
Officials said that despite partial acceptance of demands, the group continued its protests and later raised new political demands, including changes to assembly seats reserved for refugees. The matter had also reached the Supreme Court of AJK, which upheld the government’s stance.
With general elections scheduled for July 27, authorities said the decision aims to ensure a peaceful electoral process and protect citizens’ right to vote without pressure or disruption.
The government maintained that no group would be allowed to challenge state authority or create parallel systems under the guise of public demands. Security operations and investigations are continuing.
