AJK files sedition cases against Banned JAAC leaders

The Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) government has launched formal legal proceedings against leaders of the banned Jammu Kashmir Joint Awami

The Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) government has launched formal legal proceedings against leaders of the banned Jammu Kashmir Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC). The action is based on allegations of sedition and anti-state activities.

Authorities have ordered investigations against key figures of the banned group. These include Shaukat Nawaz Mir and Khawaja Mehran Arshad. Police have been directed to proceed under relevant sections of the law.

The Home Department said the inquiry covers alleged criminal speeches, writings, publications, and electronic communications. Officials stated that all available material is being examined.

Separate investigations have been assigned to different districts. The Muzaffarabad SSP will investigate Shaukat Nawaz Mir. The Mirpur SSP will handle the case of Khawaja Mehran Arshad.

Authorities have been instructed to complete the probes without delay. They will submit challans to the concerned courts once investigations are finalized.

The AJK government had already declared the JAAC a proscribed organisation. The notification was issued on June 5 under anti-terror laws. The government said the group posed a threat to peace and security in the region.

Tensions in the region increased after recent unrest in Rawalakot. Officials reported that violent incidents resulted in the martyrdom of four law enforcement personnel. More than 20 security officials were also injured.

In a parallel move, the Home Department released a list of four wanted individuals linked to the banned organisation. The list includes Shaukat Nawaz Mir, Khawaja Mehran Arshad, Umar Nazir Kashmiri, and Sardar Aman Khan.

A reward of Rs10 million has been announced for information leading to their arrest. Authorities have assured that informants will remain fully protected and their identities will be kept confidential.

Security agencies have been directed to enforce the reward mechanism immediately. Efforts are ongoing to trace and apprehend the wanted individuals.

Meanwhile, Syed Faisal Gilani, formerly associated with JAAC, has announced his complete disassociation from the group. He also condemned the violent incidents reported in Rawalakot.

Minister of State for Interior Talal Chaudhry said the situation in AJK is under control. He said law enforcement agencies are actively maintaining peace and order.

He added that some demands of the group were being addressed through government channels. However, recent developments suggest broader motives behind the organisation’s activities. He also said a detailed report on casualties will be issued later.