At least 11 people have died in clashes in Pakistan-administered Kashmir as police confronted supporters of the outlawed Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC). The violence erupted just before a planned rally aimed at advocating for political rights and legislative representation for the region’s residents.
The Supreme Court’s recent ruling, which protects legislative seats for Kashmiri refugees, has intensified tensions. The JAAC argues that these seats give refugees undue influence, prompting their call for protests. The police reported that armed supporters of the JAAC opened fire, leading to a violent response that resulted in multiple casualties.
This incident highlights the fragile political landscape in the region, where protests against rising living costs have previously turned deadly. The JAAC’s designation as a proscribed group under anti-terror laws further complicates the situation, as authorities brace for potential unrest during the upcoming rally.
As the region prepares for the June 9 protest, the implications of this violence could resonate beyond Kashmir, affecting regional stability and international perceptions of Pakistan’s governance. The ongoing conflict underscores the delicate balance between law enforcement and civil rights in politically charged environments.
Source: Al Jazeera
