AJK polling postponed in LA-27 after landslides

The Government of Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) has strongly rejected allegations that security forces opened fire on protesters or were responsible for civilian deaths during the recent unrest in Rawalakot, describing the claims as false, unverified and part of an organised disinformation campaign. Responding to a report by the BBC on the recent incidents, the AJK government said armed members of the banned Joint Awami Action Committee opened fire on security personnel in Rawalakot, resulting in the deaths and injuries of several officers. It also alleged that the attackers set multiple vehicles on fire during the violence. According to the government, security forces acted only to maintain law and order and enforce the law, insisting that civilians were not deliberately targeted during the operation. The AJK government cited information from the police spokesperson, who said seven security personnel were killed and 143 others were injured in firing allegedly carried out by armed members of the banned Joint Awami Action Committee. It further claimed that the banned group has a history of violent activities. According to the statement, attacks carried out in 2024 and 2025 resulted in the deaths of four security personnel and left hundreds of others injured. The government also said two individuals arrested on July 28 and 29 were under investigation. It alleged that one of the suspects claimed a reward of Rs10 million had been offered for the killing of each Ranger, raising questions about the possible funding of the group. According to the statement, verified videos show armed individuals linked to the banned Joint Awami Action Committee using modern weapons and firing during the unrest. The AJK government maintained that law enforcement agencies carried out their constitutional responsibilities with restraint and professionalism. It insisted that no action was taken against peaceful civilians and that operations were conducted solely to restore public order. The government also categorically denied allegations of indiscriminate firing, the use of snipers or claims that bodies of victims were withheld from their families. It further alleged that the banned Joint Awami Action Committee had previously been involved in blocking roads, stopping or burning cargo vehicles and disrupting the supply of essential goods. According to the statement, law enforcement agencies made efforts to keep roads open and ensure the uninterrupted movement of essential supplies. The AJK government added that the Joint Awami Action Committee has been declared a banned organisation under the Anti-Terrorism Act and said all legal proceedings against the group are being carried out in accordance with the law.

Pakistani journalist Murtaza Ali Shah was assaulted and injured while covering a protest march in central London. According to reports, Shah was attacked while reporting on a march organised by supporters of the banned Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC), which began at Hyde Park and proceeded towards the Pakistan High Commission. A large number of British Kashmiris gathered at Hyde Park before the march to express concern over the deteriorating situation in Azad Kashmir. Protesters called for an end to violence, the restoration of fundamental rights, and the resumption of dialogue. Eyewitnesses and videos showed that Shah came under attack as the march approached the Pakistan High Commission. While reporting from the scene, he was allegedly kicked and punched from both the front and behind by at least three individuals. A crowd quickly surrounded the journalist, escalating tensions until Metropolitan Police officers, protest organisers, and other participants intervened to prevent the situation from worsening. Police later escorted Shah away from the crowd and ensured his safety. According to reports, when Shah returned to the Pakistan High Commission to continue his reporting, members of the same group allegedly attempted to harass him again.

Security forces carried out intelligence-based operations in Lakki Marwat district of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, killing several militants and destroying multiple hideouts during the latest counterterrorism action. According to security sources, the operation targeted militant hideouts following intelligence reports about their presence in the area. During the operation, several militants were killed, while others were reportedly injured as security forces engaged the suspects. Officials said a cache of weapons, ammunition and other militant-related material was recovered from the sites cleared during the operation. Security sources added that the operation dealt a significant blow to the militant network operating in the area. Clearance and search activities continued to ensure that no militants remained in the vicinity. Meanwhile, Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi praised the security forces for the successful operation. He commended the professionalism, courage and commitment displayed by the personnel in carrying out the intelligence-based action. The interior minister said the forces had foiled the militants’ plans through timely action and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to eliminating terrorism from the country. He added that intelligence-based operations would continue until militant groups are completely dismantled and lasting peace is restored. He also said the nation stands with the security forces and values their sacrifices in maintaining peace and protecting the country from terrorist threats.