AJK govt requests 4,000 FC, Rangers personnel from Centre to deal with protests

The Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) government has sought immediate security assistance from the federal government to help restore law and order following recent unrest in several districts.

According to official sources, the AJK government requested the deployment of 4,000 personnel from the Federal Constabulary and seven wings of the Pakistan Rangers in a letter sent to the Ministry of Interior.

The letter described the activities of the banned JKJAAC as a serious threat to public order, stating that recent clashes had resulted in the martyrdom of four security personnel and injuries to 174 others.

It said sit-ins were continuing in Poonch and Rawalakot, while protests in other districts had further heightened tensions. The government also alleged that armed elements had targeted law enforcement agencies and civilians, and set fire to trucks transporting food supplies.

The AJK government urged the federal authorities to immediately deploy additional security personnel to restore law and order and ensure the writ of the state.

According to the letter, half of the requested personnel should be equipped with weapons and ammunition, while the remaining 50 percent should be provided with anti-riot gear to deal with protest situations.

Sources said the federal government has responded by dispatching additional contingents of the Federal Constabulary and Pakistan Rangers from Islamabad to Azad Kashmir.

The newly arrived personnel are expected to be deployed in sensitive districts in phases, depending on the security situation.

Sources added that security forces have been placed on high alert across the region, with security measures further tightened to prevent any deterioration in the law and order situation.