MUZAFFARABAD (Kashmir English): The Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) government has formally requested immediate assistance from the federal government to address the deteriorating law and order situation across the region.
According to an official letter sent to the Ministry of Interior, the AJK government has sought the deployment of 4,000 Federal Constabulary personnel along with seven wings of Pakistan Rangers to help restore peace and maintain public order.
The letter states that ongoing protests, sit-ins, and violent activities attributed to the banned Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC) have significantly disrupted normal life, particularly in Poonch and Rawalakot. It further alleges that organized attempts are also being made to disturb peace in Muzaffarabad and Mirpur.
Officials said that armed individuals have targeted both law enforcement personnel and civilians during recent incidents. The government claims that four officials have been killed and 174 security personnel have sustained serious injuries in the unrest. It also states that vehicles transporting essential food supplies were set on fire.
Describing the situation as critical, the AJK government termed the deployment of additional federal personnel “indispensable” for maintaining governance and ensuring the safety of citizens.
The request recommends that 50 percent of the deployed personnel be equipped with weapons and ammunition, while the remaining 50 percent be provided with riot control equipment to effectively respond to the evolving security situation.
Copies of the letter have also been forwarded to the Chief Secretary and the Inspector General of Police, Azad Kashmir, for necessary action and coordination.
