Rawalakot, July 9, 2026: A press release issued by the Poonch Division administration states that a banned organization, JAAC, has allegedly blocked roads leading to Rawalakot and surrounding areas, creating a shortage of food and essential supplies. Armed individuals reportedly felled trees placed obstacles on roads, and pelted stones to shut down traffic. Drivers are said to be afraid of transporting food and other goods due to alleged intimidation and mistreatment.
The statement says Joint Forces have begun clearing trees, debris, and other obstructions from roads to reopen the Bagh–Rawalakot route. During the operation at Makolan, armed militants allegedly opened fire from positions along the roadside using automatic weapons. The administration claims they also tried to incite local people and used stone-pelting to block the advance of security forces.
According to the press release, armed groups have occupied roads, while some mosques and school buildings have allegedly been used as their positions. It claims roads were blocked on the instructions of JAAC leadership, preventing food supplies from reaching ordinary residents. The Bagh–Rawalakot road has now been reopened, and transporters have been advised to use the Kohala route for delivering essential goods. Other routes will also be cleared.
The administration says operations are continuing against those involved in violent activities. It alleges that the sit-ins are being presented as peaceful while armed groups are positioned along roads and nearby hills with weapons. The public has been urged not to rely on unverified information circulating on social media.
The statement further claims that repeated road blockades over the past three years have severely damaged tourism, caused investors to suffer losses worth millions of rupees, and encouraged a culture of road closures over domestic issues. It also alleges that JAAC leadership has exploited ordinary people for its objectives.
The press release concludes that Joint Forces have launched action against what it describes as extremist elements involved in road blockades and appeals to local and national media to verify facts before portraying such individuals as victims. It urges the public not to believe unverified social media reports.
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