Srinagar, June 11: Tensions continue to escalate across Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) as widespread protests, a government crackdown, internet shutdowns, and demands for political reforms have plunged the region into one of its most serious crises in recent years. The unrest is being led by the Jammu Kashmir Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC), a grassroots alliance that has mobilized thousands against what it describes as Islamabad’s growing interference in the region’s affairs.
The latest wave of demonstrations was triggered by the controversial reservation of 12 seats in the PoK Legislative Assembly for refugees from Jammu and Kashmir who reside in other parts of Pakistan. JAAC argues that the arrangement allows non-residents to influence the political future of the region and has demanded the abolition of the reserved seats. A recent ruling by the Supreme Court of Azad Jammu and Kashmir upheld the seats as constitutionally protected, further inflaming tensions.
Violence erupted in Rawalakot over the weekend, leaving at least 11 people dead and dozens injured after clashes between protesters and security forces. Authorities say several police officers were killed during the confrontation, while protest leaders accuse security forces of using excessive force against civilians.
In response, the regional government banned JAAC under anti-terrorism laws, launched a sweeping crackdown, detained activists, and announced rewards for the arrest of key leaders, including Shaukat Nawaz Mir and Mehran Arshad Khawaja. Sedition cases have also been initiated against prominent organizers.
Despite the crackdown, JAAC has refused to back down and has insisted that meaningful negotiations can only begin if detained activists are released, restrictions are lifted, and the government agrees to discuss its core political demands. Protest leaders maintain that the movement is about democratic representation, regional autonomy, and accountability.
The unrest has paralyzed major towns including Muzaffarabad, Mirpur, and Kotli, with businesses shuttered and transport suspended. Internet services have also been disrupted, drawing concern from rights groups and international observers who have called for restraint and dialogue.
Analysts say the crisis reflects deeper frustrations over governance, political representation, economic grievances, and Islamabad’s role in the region. With elections scheduled for July, the standoff threatens to further destabilize Pakistan-administered Kashmir and intensify scrutiny of Pakistan’s handling of dissent in the disputed territory.
