Rana Sanaullah compares AJK protesters to former militants

Rana Sanaullah compares AJK protesters to former militants

Prime Minister’s Adviser Rana Sanaullah has compared some protesters in Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) to militant groups that Pakistan had trained in the past, claiming that certain elements later turned against the country.

Speaking during an interview Sanaullah alleged that individuals associated with armed organisations had become involved in the ongoing unrest in AJK. He claimed that these groups possessed weapons and were attempting to exploit public gatherings to create instability rather than pursue legitimate political objectives.

According to the prime minister’s adviser, the protesters do not have genuine political demands and are instead using ordinary citizens as a shield while pursuing what he described as a broader agenda. He suggested that the situation involved elements who wanted to take advantage of public sentiment and use the protests to challenge the state.

Sanaullah also defended the actions of law enforcement agencies, arguing that the authorities had few alternatives in dealing with what he characterised as an armed threat. He said security forces had to respond when groups carrying weapons created a law-and-order situation and posed a threat to public safety.

The adviser maintained that the government could not allow armed groups to operate freely under the cover of protests. He said law enforcement agencies would continue to take action whenever necessary to maintain order and protect citizens.

His comments come at a time of heightened political and social tensions in AJK, where protests have sparked a wider debate about public grievances, governance, law enforcement, and the government’s response. The situation has also raised questions about how authorities should balance the right to peaceful protest with the need to prevent violence and maintain public order.

Sanaullah’s remarks are expected to fuel further discussion about the nature of the ongoing demonstrations and the role of political and armed elements in the unrest. While the government has emphasised the need for strict action against violence and armed activity, critics have continued to call for dialogue and political engagement to address the underlying concerns of the people of AJK.