New Delhi, June 8: Pakistan-administered Kashmir is witnessing a fresh wave of political unrest as the region’s Supreme Court begins hearings on the controversial issue of 12 assembly seats reserved for refugees settled in Pakistan, a matter that has reignited public anger against Islamabad’s influence over the territory.
The dispute centres on 12 seats in the Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) Legislative Assembly allocated to so-called “refugees” living in various Pakistani cities. Critics argue that Islamabad continues to use these seats to maintain political control over the region by allowing people who do not reside in PoK to influence its government and legislative decisions.
The PoK government, widely seen as operating under Pakistan’s direction, has insisted that the seats are non-negotiable and recently pushed a resolution through the assembly defending their continuation. However, political activists and civil society groups have condemned the move, calling it another example of Pakistan overriding the wishes of local residents.
The Kashmir Awami Action Committee has announced an indefinite protest beginning June 9, urging citizens to stock essential supplies amid fears of a major government crackdown. Protest leaders say the issue reflects a broader struggle against what they describe as Pakistan’s domination of PoK’s political and economic affairs.
The latest tensions come amid months of anti-government demonstrations across the region. Protesters have repeatedly accused Pakistani authorities of denying genuine political representation, suppressing dissent and failing to address rising inflation, unemployment and shortages of basic services.
Recent clashes between demonstrators and security forces left several people dead and dozens injured, further deepening public resentment. Rights activists have also raised concerns over restrictions on internet and mobile services during periods of unrest, accusing authorities of attempting to silence criticism and prevent information from reaching the outside world.
Observers say the refugee-seat controversy has become a rallying point for wider frustrations against Islamabad’s governance model in PoK. Many residents argue that decisions affecting the region are increasingly being dictated from Pakistan rather than by elected local representatives.
As protests gather momentum and security deployments increase, fears are growing that Pakistan-administered Kashmir could face another prolonged confrontation between citizens demanding greater political rights and authorities determined to maintain control. The unfolding crisis has once again drawn attention to long-standing allegations of democratic deficits and political interference in the region.
