Key facts
- A territory-wide shutdown is in effect in Pakistan-administered Kashmir.
- At least 24 people have died in nearly two weeks of protests.
- The unrest began over the reservation of seats for refugees in the upcoming legislative assembly elections.
- The banned Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC) is leading the protests.
- Authorities have restricted internet and media access, and closed roads and petrol stations.
A territory-wide shutdown has paralyzed Pakistan-administered Kashmir following the region's deadliest unrest in years, with at least 24 people killed in nearly two weeks of protests. The confrontation between local authorities and supporters of the recently banned Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC) presents a sensitive challenge for Islamabad.
The unrest began ahead of a June 9 strike called by the JAAC to protest the reservation of 12 seats for refugees in the upcoming July 27 elections for the region's 45-seat legislative assembly. These refugees were displaced from Indian-administered Kashmir.
Government officials, speaking anonymously, stated that at least 20 civilians were killed and dozens more injured between June 6 and June 14. Regional police chief Liaqat Ali Malik reported that four officers died and 97 were wounded in clashes, with 515 people detained.
Thousands of JAAC supporters are currently camped on the outskirts of Rawalakot. In response, the government has closed main roads, blocked internet access, and limited media presence in Kashmir. Businesses, including banks and petrol stations, remain shut, with ATMs non-operational due to internet suspensions. Day laborers and taxi drivers are facing severe financial hardship due to the prolonged shutdown.