Pakistan dismisses British lawmakers’ criticism of AJK unrest

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan on Monday rejected statements by some British lawmakers and members of the diaspora regarding the security situation in Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK), calling the remarks “irresponsible and ill-informed.”

In a statement, the Foreign Office advised those individuals to avoid interfering in the internal affairs of Pakistan and AJK and instead contribute positively to their country of residence.

The response came after comments from British Members of Parliament (MPs) about a recent crackdown on protesters in AJK. The unrest has resulted in the deaths of at least seven civilians and four law enforcement personnel over the past two days.

The statement followed violent clashes in Rawalakot between police and supporters of the banned Jammu Kashmir Joint Awami Action Committee (JKJAAC).

The Foreign Office said that concerns raised by some British MPs regarding communication restrictions and arrests showed a lack of understanding of the region’s history and circumstances.

The spokesperson added that Pakistan is a sovereign and democratic country that believes in non-interference in the affairs of other states.

While reaffirming support for the constitutional rights of peaceful assembly and freedom of expression, the government said some recent protests turned violent and involved criminal activities.

According to the statement, violent elements damaged public property, disrupted services, and threatened public safety. The government also highlighted the siege of the Combined Military Hospital (CMH) in Rawalakot, describing it as an unacceptable act that put lives at risk.

The Foreign Office also urged the British government to monitor individuals in the UK who allegedly support banned organisations in Pakistan and encourage them to respect democratic processes and the rule of law.

Meanwhile, security remains tight in Rawalakot, where local authorities have suspended mobile data services to prevent further unrest ahead of a planned strike on June 9.

According to reports, at least 11 people, including four security personnel, have been killed in clashes between police and supporters of the JKJAAC over the last 36 hours.

AJK Police Chief said on Monday that a late-night operation successfully cleared protesters from around a military hospital in Rawalakot.