RAWALAKOT (Web Desk) - Syed Faisal Gilani, a member of the recently banned Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC), has announced his complete disassociation from the movement, citing concerns over recent violent incidents and the committee's current direction.
In a video statement released on Tuesday, Gilani strongly condemned the violent clashes and unrest witnessed in Rawalakot and declared that he could no longer remain associated with the organisation.
He said that he had actively supported and participated in the movement from its inception because it was launched to demand affordable flour, reduced electricity prices and other basic public rights. According to him, the movement initially focused on addressing genuine public concerns and succeeded in achieving several of its objectives.
"We played a very active role in the Awami Action Committee from day one because we had united for issues such as flour prices, electricity tariffs and other fundamental rights of the people. Many of those demands were eventually met," he said.
However, Gilani expressed serious reservations over the recent developments in the region, particularly the violence that erupted in Rawalakot. He said the current situation was deeply troubling and criticised what he described as violent actions linked to the banned committee.
Referring to the loss of lives and escalating tensions, he stated that "a bloodbath is being witnessed in Rawalakot," adding that the ongoing situation had compelled him to reassess his association with the group.
"In view of these actions and the present circumstances, I announce my complete disassociation from the banned Action Committee and its activities," he said.
His announcement comes amid heightened tensions in Azad Jammu and Kashmir following the government's decision to declare the Joint Awami Action Committee a banned organisation. Authorities have launched a crackdown against the group, while political and social debates continue over the recent unrest and the future of the movement.