Pakistan, July 29 -- Information Minister Attaullah Tarar on Tuesday, while referring to the recent violence in Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK), said the protests by the proscribed Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC) were not peaceful but violent, alleging the involvement of militant elements pursuing a foreign agenda and backed by Indian funding.

"Peaceful and transparent elections were held in AJK, with all the mainstream political parties participating fully. The people of Kashmir responded to the call of the election," he stated, referring to the first phase of elections held in the region on Monday.

In Rawalakot alone, a total of 600,000 votes were cast, making it a massive success, he said, adding that political parties held public r...