AJK Administration Hopes for Peaceful Dispersion of JAAC Protesters

The Poonch administration in Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) anticipates a peaceful dispersal of Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC) protesters who had gathered following Friday prayers. Tensions have been high between the administration and JAAC, primarily over the committee's demand to abolish 12 seats in the Legislative Assembly reserved for refugees from Indian-occupied Kashmir. Officials reported fewer than 2,000 participants by evening, with protesters unable to advance towards Rawalakot due to blocked routes. The administration had urged JAAC leader Umar Nazir to call off the demonstration unconditionally. Reports indicate that all three protest sites on the outskirts of Rawalakot were cleared shortly after midnight, with participants returning to their areas. This followed indications of a planned operation by authorities. Divisional Commissioner Waheed Khan stated that all protesters had dispersed, describing it as an unconditional surrender. A law enforcement camp is planned for the gathering site.

This event is significant as it addresses a political dispute over representation and land rights, culminating in the resolution of a protest through administrative action and negotiation.