The Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) government has declared the Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC) a proscribed organisation and placed it on the First Schedule under the region's anti-terrorism laws, 24NewsHD TV reported.
According to an official notification issued by the Home Department, the ban applies to organisations operating under the names of Jammu Kashmir Joint Awami Action Committee, Joint Awami Action Committee, and Awami Action Committee.
According to the AJK Home Department, the action was taken under the provisions of the Azad Jammu and Kashmir Anti-Terrorism Act 2014 after the authorities determined that sufficient grounds existed to declare the group a prohibited organisation.
The notification stated that the decision received formal approval from the President of Azad Jammu and Kashmir.
Authorities said the organisation was added to the First Schedule based on what the government described as reasonable evidence indicating involvement in activities detrimental to public peace and security.
The government further alleged that the group had been involved in creating unrest and disorder within the region.
The move came amid heightened political tensions in Azad Kashmir and followed a series of protest calls and demonstrations organised by the group in recent months.