ISLAMABAD (special crosspondent) – Federal Minister for Information and Broadcasting Attaullah Tarar has asserted that the banned Joint Action Committee failed to accept the peaceful and transparent nature of the recent elections held in Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK). He further alleged that the committee is attempting to undermine the Kashmir cause through acts of violence, though he maintained that their efforts to destabilize the region would ultimately fail.

Details on the Electoral Process

Speaking alongside Minister of State for Interior Talal Chaudhry during a press briefing regarding the law and order situation in Rawalakot, AJK, on Tuesday, Tarar highlighted that the Kashmiri public had responded with enthusiasm to the democratic process. He noted that all major mainstream political parties participated in the polls, with approximately 600,000 votes cast in the Mirpur Division alone, a milestone he described as a significant democratic achievement. The electoral campaign featured robust public engagement, including extensive door-to-door canvassing, corner meetings, and public rallies.

Allegations Against the Joint Action Committee

Tarar stated that the peaceful conduct of the elections was intolerable to the banned Joint Action Committee, which he claimed sought to disrupt stability in the territory. Referencing reports from the AJK government’s spokesperson, the minister alleged that the group is opposed to the region’s development and its enduring relationship with Pakistan. He further claimed that when the group realized the elections had been conducted freely, fairly, and peacefully, they turned to violent tactics. According to the minister, law enforcement authorities recovered prohibited weapons from members of the organization, who were allegedly involved in opening fire to disturb public order.

Government Stance on Regional Security

The minister emphasized that the administration views these activities as an attempt by an organized group, allegedly operating with external funding, to pursue an anti-Kashmir agenda. “The true face of such elements has now been exposed before the world,” Tarar remarked. He reiterated that the Government of Pakistan maintains full support for the AJK administration’s resolve to prevent any individual or group from threatening the lives and property of citizens. The government’s firm position is that the Kashmir cause remains a priority, and it will not permit any entity to sabotage the democratic mandate of the Kashmiri people or disturb peace in the region. Tarar concluded by stating that such disruptive agendas are destined for failure and will not be allowed to undermine the stability of the state.