The Azad Jammu and Kashmir Police has rejected reports and social media claims that young people leaving the Joint Awami Action Committee protest in Rawalakot would be arrested, targeted or harmed on their way back home.
In a press release issued on June 14, the spokesperson for the Inspector General Police Azad Jammu and Kashmir said the claims were false and were being spread to create fear among participants who wanted to leave the protest and return to their families.
According to the AJK Police, a number of youth from Bhimber, Mirpur and other areas had reached Rawalakot following the June 9 long march call given by the Joint Awami Action Committee. The statement said many of them now wanted to end their participation and go back home.
The police said some elements linked to the protest were allegedly discouraging these youth from leaving by spreading rumours through social media accounts and other channels. The statement said the rumours included claims that those leaving Rawalakot would be arrested by police or Rangers, or could face violence on their way home.
The AJK Police rejected the narrative, saying those who wished to return home were citizens and would not be stopped from leaving the protest.
The police said facilitation centres were being established in Rawalakot to assist youth who wanted to return to their homes. According to the statement, those seeking help could contact police officials at the centres and would be facilitated for safe return.
The statement added that the police and other security institutions were present to maintain law and order and protect citizens, not to create fear among peaceful individuals who wanted to leave the protest site.
The press release was issued by the spokesperson for the Inspector General Police Azad Jammu and Kashmir.
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