ISLAMABAD – Protest in Azad Jammu and Kashmir turned into deadly confrontation, and authorities banned Jammu Kashmir Joint Awami Action Committee ahead of its June 9 demonstrations, leaving four security officials dead and dozens injured.
As tensions rose, the Foreign Office accused certain British MPs and overseas activists of supporting banned elements and interfering in the country’s internal affairs, adding a diplomatic dimension to an already volatile crisis.
In a statement, MoFA issued strong warning to the UK, urging British authorities to prevent members of parliament and sections of the Pakistani diaspora from supporting banned organisations operating in Azad Jammu and Kashmir.
The sharp diplomatic response came after deadly violence erupted in Rawalakot, where activists linked to the outlawed Jammu Kashmir Joint Awami Action Committee allegedly opened fire on police and security personnel. The attack left four law enforcement officials dead and more than 20 others injured, according to authorities.
AJK government recently declared JAAC a proscribed organisation under anti-terrorism laws ahead of its planned June 9 protest. Officials accused the group of inciting unrest and disrupting public order. The organisation has previously led large demonstrations over economic hardships and political demands, but several protests in 2024 and 2025 turned violent, resulting in casualties and clashes with security forces.
Foreign Office also denounced the statement of certain British MPs and UK-based activists, saying their comments showed disregard for the historical background of Kashmir issue. Islamabad urged UK government to educate and caution individuals supporting banned groups and to ensure respect for Pakistan’s democratic institutions and legal system.
The ministry said Pakistan remains committed to constitutional rights such as peaceful assembly, freedom of speech, and democratic participation. However, it warned that attacks on law enforcement personnel, vandalism, destruction of hospitals and public property, and violence against civilians would not be tolerated.
The statement also carried broader message on sovereignty, with Islamabad reminding foreign critics that Pakistan is an independent democratic state and expects other countries to avoid interference in its internal affairs.
Rawalakot Protest shows Joint Awami Action Committee’s Attacks on AJK Police, desecration of bodies
