The Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC) in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) stated that the arrest of its leader, Shaukat Nawaz Mir, by Pakistani authorities would strengthen the movement. Mir, the head of the recently banned JAAC, was detained in PoK’s Dhirkot area. The group continues its protest, demanding the acceptance of their “legitimate demands.”
The situation in PoK remains tense following the ban on JAAC, with the group vowing to continue its sit-in until their demands are met. Muzaffarabad Deputy Commissioner confirmed Mir’s arrest, alleging it was a result of a joint operation by Pakistani intelligence agencies and police. The JAAC expressed that Mir’s presence at the protest site would have boosted morale and participation.
The JAAC emphasized that public movements are not dependent on any single individual but are collective efforts. Despite Mir’s arrest, the group asserted that the movement would only grow stronger. Alongside Mir, another JAAC member, Saib Javed, was also arrested, described as advocates for the people’s rights and justice.
The arrest of Mir drew strong condemnation from Naseem Baloch, chairman of the Baloch National Movement, who criticized Pakistan’s use of force and arrests. Baloch emphasized that occupied lands cannot be subdued through fear and oppression. The JAAC reiterated its commitment to the cause, stating that the movement’s resolve cannot be silenced by arrests.
