Pakistan-administered Kashmir elections and protests – all you need to know

Pakistan-administered Kashmir faces its most serious political crisis in recent years as demonstrations over electoral representation have escalated into deadly confrontations. The unrest centers on demands for changes to electoral laws and increased economic support for the region, with the Jammu and Kashmir Joint Awami Action Committee leading the movement. The regional government has proceeded with three-phase elections despite widespread calls for boycotts and business shutdowns in major cities including Muzaffarabad, the capital of Azad Jammu and Kashmir.

The death toll from the unrest remains disputed. Local estimates and protest leaders claim more than 60 civilian deaths have occurred over less than two months, with an additional seven law enforcement personnel killed. However, official government figures have not been released. The violence has prompted authorities to implement a partial internet blackout since early June, severely limiting telecommunications and connectivity across the region.

The core dispute involves 12 reserved legislative seats designated for Kashmiri refugees. Protesters argue these seats undermine local representation and have demanded their abolition as part of broader electoral reforms. The government maintains that the movement threatens public order and has characterized the unrest as influenced by external actors. Pakistan's military leadership has stated that the state retains sole authority over the use of force while claiming to exercise restraint in managing the crisis.

Azad Jammu and Kashmir operates as a semi-autonomous region within Pakistan but lacks full provincial status due to the longstanding territorial dispute with India over Kashmir. The region's capital sits approximately 30 kilometers from the Line of Control, the de facto border separating Pakistani and Indian-administered territories. The final phase of elections is scheduled to conclude on August 10.