Pakistan rejects 'unwarranted' remarks on AJK by individuals in UK

Pakistan has strongly refuted what it termed "unwarranted" and "irresponsible" remarks concerning Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) made by members of the diaspora in the United Kingdom and some British parliamentarians. The Foreign Office issued a statement Monday advising these individuals to cease interfering in Pakistan's internal affairs.

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These individuals are advised to refrain from interfering in the internal affairs of Pakistan and AJK. They would do well to contribute positively to their country of residence.

The ministry expressed concern over "ill-informed insinuations" and stated that remarks by certain British MPs demonstrated a "lack of awareness and disregard for the historical background of the issue." Pakistan reiterated its commitment to sovereignty and non-interference in other countries' affairs, expecting the same in return.

The statement came amid heightened tensions in AJK, where clashes between police and protesters from the Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC) resulted in at least seven civilian deaths. The JAAC was recently declared a proscribed organization by the AJK government, accused of "terrorism" and acting in a manner prejudicial to peace and security. Authorities have since cracked down on the group, arresting leaders and activists and curtailing information flow by closing mobile data services.

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For those still living in colonial times, it bears reiterating that Pakistan is a sovereign and democratic republic that firmly believes in non-interference in the internal affairs of other countries and expects the same from others.

Pakistan urged the British government to educate and caution those supporting proscribed organizations, emphasizing respect for democratic processes, judicial decisions, and the rule of law in both AJK and Pakistan. The government stressed that vandalism, destruction of public services, and murder of civilians and law enforcement officials would not be tolerated under any circumstances.

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vandalism, the destruction of public services, including hospitals, and the murder of innocent civilians and law enforcement officials could not be permitted under any circumstances.