Azad Kashmir government bans Joint Public Action Committee, orders army and ranger deployment for 2026 elections

The government of Azad Jammu and Kashmir declared the Joint Public Action Committee and related groups illegal under the Azad Jammu and Kashmir Anti‑Terrorism Act 2014, citing evidence that the organization threatened peace and security in the region.

Following the ban, authorities sealed the group’s central office and instructed provincial ministries, federal interior officials, and security agencies to enforce the order. The interior ministry also approved the deployment of army troops and Pakistan Rangers to the area ahead of the scheduled 2026 general elections to maintain law and order.

Prime Minister Faisal M. Rathore condemned the committee for fomenting unrest, alleging connections to external influences and extremist elements, and affirmed that the government will protect citizens’ rights while rejecting any attempts at blackmail or hostage‑taking.