Violent protests, internet shutdowns, and political tensions overshadow Azad Jammu and Kashmir’s staggered legislative elections.
ISLAMABAD: Pakistan-administered Kashmir, officially known as Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK), is preparing for crucial legislative elections after months of violent unrest that has left nearly 40 people dead and plunged parts of the region into an unofficial state of emergency.
Since early June, clashes between protesters and security forces have escalated across several districts, with prolonged sit-ins, road blockades, and communication blackouts severely disrupting daily life.
Nearly 40 Killed During Months of Protests
According to local reports, nearly 40 people have lost their lives during the ongoing unrest, while dozens more have been injured in confrontations between demonstrators and security personnel.
The protests have significantly affected public services and commercial activity across the territory. Banks remained closed for nearly two weeks, while mobile phone and internet services continue to remain suspended in most parts of AJK.
The Poonch Division, bordering Indian-administered Kashmir, has emerged as the center of the protests. Authorities sealed off the region for several weeks, disrupting the supply of flour, food items, fuel, and other essential commodities to residents.
JAAC Movement Banned
The demonstrations have largely been organized by the Jammu Kashmir Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC), which was officially banned by the AJK government on June 5, only days before a planned mass protest.
Following the ban, several senior JAAC leaders were arrested, while others reportedly went into hiding. Some activists continue coordinating demonstrations from protest camps established in Rawalakot, the administrative headquarters of Poonch Division.
Protest Demands Expand Beyond Economic Issues
The movement initially focused on demands for subsidized flour, reduced electricity tariffs, and relief from rising living costs.
However, the protest campaign has since expanded into a broader political movement, presenting a 38-point charter of demands.
Among its key demands is the abolition of 12 reserved seats in the Azad Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly allocated to Kashmiri refugees, with organizers arguing that the current political structure requires significant reforms.
AJK Elections Split Into Three Phases
Despite the ongoing unrest, election authorities are moving ahead with polls for the 45-member Azad Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly.
Due to security concerns, voting has been divided into three phases instead of being conducted on a single day.
The election schedule is as follows:
- July 27: Mirpur Division
- August 2: Muzaffarabad Division and the 12 refugee-reserved seats
- August 10: Poonch Division, where security concerns remain the highest
Officials say the staggered polling schedule is intended to facilitate better security arrangements and ensure the smooth conduct of elections.
Security Challenges Cast Shadow Over Polls
Political observers believe the elections will serve as a major test for the regional administration as authorities attempt to restore stability after one of the most turbulent periods in AJK’s recent history.
The continued detention of protest leaders, communication restrictions, and public dissatisfaction over governance issues have raised concerns regarding voter participation and the overall electoral environment.
The outcome of the elections is expected to play a significant role in shaping the future political landscape of Pakistan-administered Kashmir while determining how the incoming government addresses the demands that have fueled months of unrest.
