08.06.2026 13:30
In clashes between protesters and security forces ahead of a planned protest tomorrow in Pakistan-administered Azad Kashmir, 11 people, including 4 police officers, were killed and 23 were injured. The incidents were reported to have occurred due to reactions to the quota reserved for refugees in the parliament ahead of the elections.
Tensions have risen in Pakistan-administered Azad Kashmir ahead of a planned protest tomorrow. Supporters and security forces clashed before the demonstrations, which were called by the newly formed Joint Public Action Committee (JAAC).
In the region, scuffles broke out between the crowd, gathered due to economic issues, governance reforms, and political demands, and police and paramilitary forces. Security forces' attempts to disperse the crowd failed, and the incidents quickly turned into violent clashes.
4 POLICE OFFICERS KILLED
Officials stated that protesters opened fire on police, and reported that a total of 11 people, including 4 police officers, lost their lives in the clashes. It was also reported that 23 people were injured in the incidents.
The injured were taken to nearby hospitals, and security measures in the region have been increased.
TENSION AHEAD OF ELECTIONS
The JAAC had called for protests and strikes ahead of the Azad Kashmir Legislative Assembly elections scheduled for July 27. The group opposes the allocation of 12 of the 45 seats in the assembly for refugees.
The committee demands the removal of seats reserved for candidates living in different parts of Pakistan outside Kashmir.
SECURITY ALERT IN THE REGION
Following the clashes, a security alert has been issued in the region, with concerns that new protests could lead to larger incidents. Authorities announced that additional security forces have been deployed to maintain public order.