Key facts
- Deadly clashes occurred during regional elections in Pakistan-administered Kashmir.
- Authorities accused an outlawed group, the JAAC, and the Pakistani Taliban of attempting to sabotage the elections.
- One paramilitary officer was killed and five injured in clashes.
- A banned Kashmiri group claimed over 30 people died in clashes around Rawalakot.
- The PML-N won nine out of 13 seats in the first round of elections.
- The PTI boycotted the vote due to concerns over electoral fraud.
Deadly clashes erupted in Pakistan-administered Kashmir during regional elections, with authorities accusing an outlawed group and the Pakistani Taliban of attempting to sabotage the vote. The banned Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC) claimed over 30 people were killed in clashes around Rawalakot, while authorities confirmed one paramilitary officer died and five were injured.
The election, split into three rounds due to security concerns, saw Pakistan's ruling PML-N party win nine out of 13 seats in the first round. The Imran Khan-founded Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) boycotted the vote, citing electoral fraud. The JAAC, banned in June, has been protesting for greater regional autonomy and electoral reform, leading to previous deadly demonstrations.
Authorities allege that armed and India-backed militants joined the protests, a claim India has rejected. The JAAC, formed in 2023, advocates for the abolition of refugee seats in the assembly, which they claim are used to manipulate local politics. Security forces reported protesters used Kalashnikov assault rifles and snipers. Banking, road, and internet services have been disrupted since the protests intensified.