Protest Death Toll Rises as Tensions Escalate in Pakistan-Administered Kashmir

DID Press: Protests and unrest continued across Pakistan-administered Kashmir as the reported death toll from recent demonstrations rose to 15, including four security personnel, amid escalating tensions over the region’s electoral structure.

The unrest has intensified over the past four days following growing opposition to the current political representation system in the region.

At the same time, security forces reportedly failed in an attempt to detain the leader of the Joint Action Committee of Jammu and Kashmir, the group that had called for a general strike and mass protests beginning on June 9.

A large rally involving thousands of demonstrators was reported near Rawalakot. According to local authorities, participants had intended to move toward Muzaffarabad, but police blocked access routes.

A widespread shutdown and strike have affected several areas across Pakistan-administered Kashmir, with businesses and public activity disrupted.

Protesters are demanding the removal of 12 parliamentary seats reserved for displaced Kashmiris from Indian-administered Kashmir, arguing that the arrangement has contributed to what they describe as political engineering and unequal representation in the region’s governing structure.

The latest developments underscore rising political tensions in the territory as authorities and protest organizers remain at odds over representation and governance.