MUZAFFARABAD, June 11, 2026 — At least 15 people, including 11 civilians and four security personnel, have been killed in violent clashes between protesters and security forces in Pakistan-administered Kashmir, according to local authorities.
The unrest erupted after the Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC), a coalition of activist groups, launched a mass protest against the reservation of 12 seats for refugees in the region’s upcoming legislative assembly elections. Protest leaders argue that the seats should be contested only by residents currently living in Pakistan-administered Kashmir.
Authorities responded by banning the JAAC under anti-terrorism laws, accusing the organization of activities detrimental to public order and state security. Security agencies were also instructed to take action against the group’s leadership.
Despite the ban, thousands of demonstrators have continued marching toward the regional capital, Muzaffarabad. Officials estimate that more than 10,000 protesters are traveling in a convoy that has reached areas near Rawalakot, where security forces have established checkpoints and increased patrols.
Local authorities have urged residents to remain indoors, while mosques in several districts have broadcast announcements advising people not to leave their homes. Helicopters have been conducting surveillance flights over Muzaffarabad and Rawalakot amid concerns that the situation could further deteriorate.
The violence first escalated earlier this week in Rawalakot, with additional fatalities reported in Kotli on Tuesday. More than 50 people have reportedly been injured, and officials fear the death toll could rise.
Human rights organization Amnesty International criticized the government’s response, describing it as a “violent and sweeping crackdown” that includes internet shutdowns, mass arrests, and the use of lethal force against protesters.
Meanwhile, the JAAC has called for a region-wide general strike. Many businesses in Muzaffarabad remained closed on Thursday, with some traders saying they would continue their shutdown until authorities address protesters’ demands.
The dispute centers on the allocation of 12 reserved seats for Kashmiri refugees who do not currently reside in Pakistan-administered Kashmir. Protesters argue that the arrangement disenfranchises local residents and limits their political representation.
However, the Supreme Court of Pakistan-administered Kashmir recently ruled that the reserved seats are constitutionally protected and cannot be altered through administrative action, political agreements, or public pressure.
Pakistan-administered Kashmir is a semi-autonomous region with its own government, but the broader Kashmir territory remains a long-standing point of contention between India and Pakistan. Both countries claim the region in full and have fought multiple conflicts over it since their independence.
