Rawalakot, Azad Kashmir: In a decisive move to intensify the ongoing public rights movement, the Jammu Kashmir Joint Aawmi Action Committee (JKJAAC) has announced an indefinite statewide lockdown starting December 5, 2024. This decision was made during an emergency meeting of the committee’s core members held on November 19-20 in Rawalakot.

The meeting brought together representatives from all three divisions of the region and focused on analyzing the state of the 18-month-long struggle, the controversial presidential ordinance, and its implications.

The gathering began with a detailed review of the public rights movement, which has been characterized by widespread peaceful protests demanding justice, fairness, and fundamental rights for the people of Azad Jammu and Kashmir. The session also took stock of recommendations submitted during consultative meetings held across various divisions. After hours of deliberations, the committee made significant decisions to shape the future course of action.

Key Decisions and Announcements

1. Reaffirmation of Peaceful Struggle:
The Jammu Kashmir Joint Awami Action Committee (JKJAAC) underscored its unwavering commitment to pursuing its Charter of Demands through a peaceful and political framework. The committee reassured the public that its mission remains focused on achieving justice and preserving the dignity of the people of Azad Kashmir.

2. Rejection of the Presidential Ordinance:
The committee reiterated its outright rejection of the controversial presidential ordinance, describing it as a “draconian law” aimed at stifling dissent and silencing the voices of the people. “From the very beginning, we have opposed this black law, and we will continue our struggle until it is repealed,” a spokesperson stated.

3. Condemnation of State Repression:
The JKJPAC strongly condemned the wave of arrests, fabricated cases, and police violence unleashed on peaceful protesters, particularly in Rawalakot, Mirpur, and Hajira. The committee expressed grave concern over these measures, which it described as an assault on basic democratic rights. The government was sternly warned to abandon such repressive tactics and immediately release all detainees unconditionally.

4. Indefinite Lockdown Announcement:
Citing the ordinance as a blatant violation of human rights, the committee declared a statewide indefinite shutter-down, wheel-jam, and complete lockdown starting December 5. Citizens were urged to prepare for a prolonged movement by stocking up on essential supplies. The committee called upon all sections of society, including traders, transporters, students, lawyers, religious leaders, and government employees, to suspend their daily activities in solidarity with the cause.

“During the lockdown, we appeal to philanthropists to support daily wage earners who will be affected by the suspension of business and work,” the committee added, emphasizing the need for community support during this critical phase.

5. Global Call to Action:
The committee appealed to overseas Kashmiris to take the movement global by organizing protests worldwide. It urged expatriates to highlight the human rights violations resulting from the presidential ordinance and amplify the voice of the people of Azad Kashmir on international platforms.

6. Solidarity With Ongoing Protests:
The JKJAAC expressed unwavering support for all ongoing protests across the region. The committee particularly condemned the government’s heavy-handed response to demonstrations in Rawalakot, calling it a form of state-sponsored terrorism.

7. Expansion of the Charter of Demands:
Based on input gathered from all three divisions, the committee decided to expand its Charter of Demands. The revised demands now include:

• Free healthcare and education for all citizens.
• Creation of employment opportunities to address rising joblessness.
• Establishment of an international airport in Azad Kashmir to enhance connectivity and economic growth.
• Protection of the right to peaceful protest for government employees, as guaranteed under the Interim Constitution Act 74.

A Movement Rooted in Public Interest

The JKJAAC emphasized that its struggle is not a political rivalry but a fight for the basic rights and welfare of the people of Azad Kashmir. Speaking after the meeting, a committee representative said, “We are fighting for justice, equality, and the dignity of our people. The ordinance is a direct attack on our freedoms, and we will not rest until it is repealed.”

Public Preparations and Next Steps

The committee advised the public to prepare for the lockdown by securing essential supplies. It also called on various professional groups to support the movement by suspending their operations. The upcoming lockdown is expected to bring significant disruptions to daily life, but the committee remains hopeful that widespread participation will strengthen the collective demand for justice.

Through this announcement, the JKJPAC aims to bring attention to the plight of the people of Azad Kashmir and ensure that their voices resonate both locally and globally.

Issued by: Jammu Kashmir Joint Awami Action Committee