Islamabad has called on the British government to advise lawmakers and members of the Pakistani diaspora against supporting proscribed organisations in Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK), following recent unrest in the region.
Foreign Office Raises Concerns
Pakistan’s Foreign Office (FO) on Monday expressed concern over statements made by some members of the Pakistani diaspora in the United Kingdom and comments from certain British parliamentarians regarding the situation in Azad Jammu and Kashmir.
In an official statement, the FO said that remarks made by some individuals reflected a lack of understanding of the historical and constitutional context of AJK. It urged those concerned to avoid interfering in Pakistan’s internal affairs and instead contribute positively to the societies in which they reside.
The statement emphasized that Pakistan expects other countries to respect its sovereignty, just as it respects the internal affairs of other nations.
Call for UK Government Action
The Foreign Office specifically urged the UK government to caution its lawmakers and members of the diaspora against supporting banned organisations operating in AJK.
According to Islamabad, individuals and groups should respect democratic institutions, judicial decisions, and the constitutional framework governing both Pakistan and Azad Kashmir.
The FO argued that some comments made by British MPs demonstrated insufficient awareness of the legal and historical realities surrounding the issue.
Background: Rawalakot Violence
The diplomatic statement comes in the wake of a deadly incident in Rawalakot, Azad Kashmir, where authorities say activists linked to the banned Jammu Kashmir Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC) opened fire on security personnel.
According to police officials, four members of law enforcement were killed, while more than 20 police and security personnel sustained injuries during the clashes.
The violence occurred shortly after the AJK government declared the JAAC a proscribed organisation under anti-terrorism laws ahead of planned demonstrations scheduled for June 9.
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Previous Protests and Government Concerns
The JAAC has organised several large-scale protests in recent years, focusing on economic issues, electricity prices, governance concerns, and political rights in Azad Kashmir.
While many demonstrations remained peaceful, some protests escalated into violent confrontations. Significant clashes between protesters and security forces were also reported during demonstrations in 2024 and 2025, resulting in casualties on both sides.
Authorities maintain that the ban was imposed due to security concerns and alleged involvement in activities that threatened public order.
Pakistan Reaffirms Democratic Rights
In its statement, the Foreign Office stressed that both the federal government and the Azad Kashmir administration remain committed to protecting citizens’ constitutional rights, including freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, and participation in democratic processes.
However, the FO drew a distinction between peaceful protest and violent actions.
The ministry stated that acts such as vandalism, attacks on public infrastructure, damage to essential services, and the killing of civilians or law enforcement personnel cannot be justified under the guise of political activism or protest.
Sovereignty and Rule of Law
The Foreign Office concluded by reaffirming Pakistan’s position as a sovereign democratic state governed by constitutional principles and the rule of law.
Islamabad maintained that constitutional disputes should be addressed through democratic institutions, courts, and elected representatives rather than through violence or external pressure.
The statement underscores growing tensions surrounding the situation in Azad Kashmir and highlights Pakistan’s desire to prevent foreign involvement in what it considers a domestic matter.
