Tuesday, June 9, 2026- Violent clashes in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir have left dozens dead and hundreds injured as protests over the reservation of legislative assembly seats for refugees escalate into widespread unrest. Demonstrations erupted after authorities upheld the constitutional protection of 12 seats reserved for Kashmiri refugees living elsewhere in Pakistan ahead of elections scheduled for July 27.
Protesters many aligned with the Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC), a group now banned under anti-terror laws argue the quota distorts political representation and amounts to outside interference. Security forces responded with force in cities such as Rawalakot and Muzaffarabad, with reports indicating at least 30 people killed and around 200 injured in clashes since the weekend.
The situation turned especially deadly on Sunday night when confrontations between protesters and security forces spread following a march and strikes called by JAAC supporters.
Authorities have imposed internet blackouts, deployed additional police and paramilitary units, and issued arrest warrants for key protest leaders, offering rewards for their capture as part of efforts to quell the unrest. Businesses and transport services have shut down in multiple towns amid strikes and shutdowns, while tensions continue to simmer across the region.
India has strongly condemned the crackdown and urged the international community to hold Pakistan accountable for alleged human rights abuses during the suppression of demonstrations.
New Delhi criticised the use of force and reported casualties among civilians, calling for transparency and protection of fundamental rights in the disputed territory. The unrest highlights not only deep local grievances over representation and governance in PoK but also the broader fragility of political stability ahead of key elections.
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