AJK govt initiates sedition probe against Shaukat, Kh Mehran

MUZAFFARABAD: The Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) government has initiated formal legal proceedings against Shaukat Nawaz Mir and Khawaja Mehran Arshad on allegations of sedition and anti-state activities, according to notifications issued by the Home Department.

The Home Department said investigations had been ordered into speeches, writings, publications and electronic communications allegedly linked to Shaukat Nawaz Mir that may constitute offences under Section 124-A of the Penal Code of Azad Jammu and Kashmir.

According to the notifications, a review of available records and material found sufficient grounds for further investigation in accordance with the law. The department said the evidence and records available against both individuals required detailed examination by the investigating authorities.

The government has directed the concerned district police chiefs to complete investigations and submit challans before the relevant courts under Section 196 of the Criminal Procedure Code.

Under the directives, the SSP Muzaffarabad has been tasked with completing the investigation against Shaukat Nawaz Mir, while the SSP Mirpur has been instructed to finalise the investigation against Khawaja Mehran Arshad and submit the case to the relevant court.

According to government sources, investigators are examining allegations linked to an alleged leaked audio conversation dated June 6, in which Mir and Arshad were purportedly discussing plans involving sabotage, sieges and confrontations with state institutions in Rawalakot. The alleged audio was broadcast by several national media outlets on Monday night, the sources said.

Sources further claimed that similarities between the contents of the alleged audio conversation and subsequent violent incidents in Rawalakot had strengthened the basis for the ongoing investigation.

Investigating agencies are conducting a detailed inquiry into the alleged planning, coordination, incitement and possible links between the conversation and subsequent events, according to sources.

Officials said the investigation would cover all aspects related to alleged attacks on state institutions, damage to public property, disruption of public order and incitement to violence.

Government sources said authorities would proceed against anyone found involved in planning, supporting or encouraging violent activities in accordance with the law. The allegations remain under investigation, and the courts will determine any criminal liability based on the evidence presented.