Deadly Clashes Erupt in Azad Kashmir Over Legislative Seats

Violent confrontations between security forces and the Jammu Kashmir Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC) spread across Rawalakot and Mirpur in Azad Kashmir on July 28, 2026. The unrest is driven by the JAAC's opposition to the reservation of 12 seats in the AJK Legislative Assembly for refugees residing in Pakistan, an arrangement the group argues dilutes the political representation of local residents.

Clashes initially erupted in Rawalakot during a long march toward Muzaffarabad. The JAAC claims 14 members were killed during this confrontation, while district officials report one Rangers soldier was killed and four others injured. Violence later spread to Mirpur, where police reported one protester killed and two injured after demonstrators allegedly attempted to forcibly shut down businesses. The JAAC countered these claims, alleging that security forces opened fire on peaceful civilians at Shuhada Chowk.

Casualty figures remain heavily disputed. Official records cite 40 deaths prior to July 27, whereas the JAAC claims a total of 67 deaths occurred between June 5 and July 28. In response to the instability, the Government of Azad Kashmir restricted internet services and increased security presence in Muzaffarabad and Rawalakot. Authorities have initiated legal action against JAAC leaders, who were previously declared outlawed under anti-terrorism laws, while the government maintains the reserved seats are constitutionally protected.