Protest in Pakistan’s Kashmir stalls after nine killed in clashes

Key Points:

• Clashes in Pakistan-administered Kashmir resulted in at least nine deaths, including security personnel and protesters, amid a planned protest march to Muzaffarabad being temporarily stalled.
• Security forces raided a house in Rawalakot’s Poonch district, leading to an exchange of fire and the death of an officer; separately, a security convoy was attacked in Sudhnoti district, killing seven protesters and one police officer.
• The Jammu Kashmir Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC), banned under anti-terrorism laws on June 5, continues to lead protests against the political representation arrangement involving 12 legislative seats reserved for Kashmiri refugees living outside the region.
• Despite the unrest, authorities report calm in Muzaffarabad with restricted internet and phone access complicating communication; around 3,000 to 4,000 protesters remain gathered in Rawalakot, but no violence was reported on Wednesday.
• The Supreme Court upheld the constitutional protection of the disputed seats, intensifying protests ahead of regional elections scheduled for July 27, with approximately 4,000 security personnel deployed to control the situation and restrict protest routes.