Muhammad Rashid Hanif

AJK Information Secretary Muhammad Rashid Hanif reported that seven law enforcement personnel, including police and Rangers, were martyred during recent unrest linked to protests by the proscribed Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC). Clashes in Rawalakot and Mirpur resulted in casualties, while elections in the region faced rigging allegations. Hanif accused JAAC of harboring armed elements and spreading misinformation, rejecting claims of unprovoked violence by security forces.

AJK Information Secretary Muhammad Rashid Hanif claimed a significant number of Fitna Al Khawarij terrorists, linked to banned Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan, were present among protesters of the proscribed Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC). Security forces reported armed militants using modern weapons and human shields, resulting in one police death and five injuries, with a foreign suspect arrested in Rawalakot.

The AJK Election Commission warned against code of conduct violations following PML-N's announcement of development schemes during elections. PPP labeled the pledges as 'political bribery,' prompting the Commission to clarify that new schemes or government resources used for campaigning would be illegal. Media and social platforms were urged to avoid unverified content to maintain electoral integrity.

Azad Jammu and Kashmir Information Department Secretary Muhammad Rashid Hanif claimed state institutions have evidence of Indian funding behind the banned Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC) in the region. He alleged JAAC members conducted violent activities, including road blockades and anti-Pakistan rhetoric, while promoting an independent Kashmir agenda.