Deadly Unrest Rocks Pakistan-Administered Kashmir Ahead of Elections as Dozens Killed
By Uzair Saleem | SCN NEWS
At least 40 people have been killed in Pakistan-administered Kashmir in the weeks leading up to the region's legislative elections, turning what should have been a democratic process into one of the deadliest pre-election periods in recent years.
Among the victims was Naqash Zardad, a 30-year-old education department employee who, according to his family, was caught in the wrong place at the wrong time. Zardad was at his buffalo farm near Rawalakot when clashes erupted between security forces and protesters. Unable to leave because roads had been blocked, he was struck by a stray bullet and died at the scene, his uncle told the BBC.
According to official figures cited by the BBC, 34 of those killed were protesters, while six were police and paramilitary personnel, highlighting the growing intensity of the confrontation.
Why Are People Protesting?
The unrest centers on a controversial decision to reserve 12 seats in the Azad Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly for refugees who migrated to Pakistan from Indian-administered Kashmir decades ago.
The Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC) argues that these reserved seats could significantly influence the region's political future and has organized long marches, demonstrations and strikes demanding the decision be reversed.
Supporters say the protests are about protecting local political representation, while opponents argue the refugee seats reflect the historical realities of the Kashmir dispute.
Government Crackdown
Authorities have responded by declaring JAAC an outlawed organization under anti-terrorism legislation and launching a broad security crackdown.
Police have carried out arrests, dispersed demonstrations and increased security across several districts.
Human rights groups and opposition voices have accused security forces of using excessive force against demonstrators. Government officials, however, say security personnel acted to restore public order after protests turned violent and resulted in attacks on police.
Rawalakot Becomes Flashpoint
Rawalakot has emerged as one of the main centers of unrest.
Repeated clashes between protesters and security forces have disrupted daily life, closed roads and raised concerns that violence could continue as election day approaches.
Residents say fear has spread across communities as both civilians and security personnel have lost their lives during the confrontations.
Political Stakes
The election was expected to focus on governance, development and economic issues.
Instead, the debate has shifted toward questions of political legitimacy, electoral representation and the government's handling of dissent.
Analysts warn that continued violence could undermine voter confidence and reduce turnout while increasing political polarization in the disputed Himalayan region.
Why This Matters
Pakistan-administered Kashmir remains part of the broader Kashmir dispute between Pakistan and India, making political stability in the region closely watched internationally.
Although the current protests focus primarily on local electoral arrangements rather than cross-border tensions, prolonged unrest could further complicate governance in one of South Asia's most politically sensitive regions.
Most Unique Fact
The current unrest is centered not on relations with India, but on reserved assembly seats for refugees, making it primarily a domestic political dispute that has nevertheless become one of the deadliest pre-election crises in Pakistan-administered Kashmir in recent years.
SCN Analysis
The violence reflects a deeper struggle over political representation and public trust rather than a single election issue.
The government's decision to outlaw JAAC has intensified tensions instead of calming them, while protesters argue they are defending local democratic rights.
The coming election will therefore be judged not only by who wins seats, but also by whether authorities can restore public confidence without further bloodshed.