Deadly Protests Bring Pakistan-Administered Kashmir to a Standstill

A territory-wide shutdown in Pakistan-administered Kashmir has disrupted daily life and economic activity after nearly two weeks of unrest left at least 24 people dead, marking one of the region’s deadliest episodes of violence in recent years.

The crisis has emerged as a significant challenge for Islamabad as tensions continue to rise between local authorities and supporters of the recently banned Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC). The protests have drawn attention to growing political dissatisfaction in the region ahead of upcoming legislative elections.

The unrest began before a strike called by the JAAC on June 9. The group opposed the reservation of 12 seats for refugees in the July 27 elections for the region’s 45-member legislative assembly. The reserved seats are allocated to refugees who were displaced from Indian-administered Kashmir and now live in Pakistan.

Demonstrations intensified in the days leading up to and following the strike. Government officials, speaking anonymously, said at least 20 civilians were killed between June 6 and June 14, while dozens more sustained injuries.

Regional police chief Liaqat Ali Malik said four police officers were also killed during clashes with protesters. He added that 97 officers had been wounded and 515 people had been detained since the unrest began.

Thousands of JAAC supporters are currently gathered on the outskirts of Rawalakot, located about 100 kilometers south of Muzaffarabad, the region’s capital. Authorities have responded by closing major roads, restricting internet access and limiting media movement across large parts of the territory.

The measures have severely affected businesses and public services. In Muzaffarabad’s Upper Adda commercial district, usually one of the city’s busiest areas, many shops remain shuttered and economic activity has slowed dramatically.

Day laborer Ikhlaq Ahmed, 27, said he has been unable to find work since the strike began.

“Since June 9, I have not earned a single rupee,” he said while waiting with other workers in hopes of securing temporary employment.

Although some medical stores and grocery shops have reopened for limited hours, most businesses remain closed. Fruit and vegetable vendors have cautiously resumed operations, but customer activity remains low.

Bank notices posted across the city cite the suspension of internet and satellite services as the reason for the closure of ATMs and disruptions to banking operations. Petrol stations have also been ordered to remain shut, adding to difficulties faced by residents.

For many workers who depend on daily wages, the prolonged shutdown has created mounting financial pressure. Motorcycle taxi driver Asif Naz said the situation has become increasingly difficult for those with limited savings.

“Those with resources may sustain it, but for blue-collar workers like us, it is self-slaughter,” he said.

With protesters remaining mobilized and security restrictions still in place, there is little sign that the standoff will ease in the immediate future.