AJK Government on Sunday warned that the proscribed Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC) would be held responsible for any untoward incident involving students during its planned protests. The warning comes amid reports that students have been called to participate in demonstrations on 14 and 15 July, with a proposed march towards Muzaffarabad.
The involvement of women and students in any protest activity carries serious concerns, as their safety and well-being must remain the foremost priority. Any unfortunate incident involving students or other vulnerable segments of society would only worsen the situation. Political and social differences should always be addressed through peaceful means, keeping public safety and the interests of people above all else. The JAAC leadership should also pay heed to the voices of those individuals who were once part of the committee and have now called for an end to the prolonged sit-in and planned long march. Former core member of the committee Raja Amjad Ali Khan appealed to the leadership to withdraw the protest call, highlighting the hardships faced by the people of Rawalakot Division due to the continued disruption. There is no denying that peaceful protest is a fundamental democratic right and the people have the right to raise their concerns and demand solutions to their problems. However, every issue ultimately finds its resolution through negotiations. Protests may draw attention to grievances, but sustainable solutions are achieved when all stakeholders sit together and engage in meaningful discussions. According to the AJK government, an agreement reached on 4 October 2025 had already addressed all 38 demands presented by the then JAAC. While differences may still exist over certain matters, the way forward lies in continued engagement and dialogue rather than prolonged disruption of public life. The sit-in in Rawalakot has reportedly affected the daily lives of common man, with disruptions to the movement of people and supplies of essential commodities, including food and medicines. At this stage, the protestors should consider the larger public interest and review its course of action. Ending the sit-in and returning to the negotiating table would help restore normalcy and ease the difficulties faced by the common man.
