Nine killed in clashes ahead of planned protest in Pakistan-administered Kashmir

At least nine people were killed on Tuesday after violent clashes erupted between security forces and supporters of a banned protest group in Pakistan-administered Kashmir, a day before the group was due to stage a march against disputed electoral arrangements ahead of regional elections later this month.

The unrest centres on opposition to 12 seats reserved in the regional assembly for refugees living in other parts of Pakistan. Protesters argue that the arrangement undermines local representation and weakens the political voice of residents in the territory.

According to Poonch Divisional Commissioner Waheed Khan, demonstrators intercepted a security convoy and attacked officials in the Poonch area, prompting security personnel to respond in self-defence. The clashes left six protesters and one police officer dead in Tararkhal, while a separate confrontation in Rawalakot claimed the lives of one protester and one member of the security forces.

The Joint Action Committee (JAAC), which was outlawed under Pakistan’s anti-terrorism laws in June, has called for a protest march to Rawalakot on Wednesday. Authorities say security personnel are on standby to prevent demonstrators from entering the city. Local estimates indicate that about 30 people have been killed in the unrest since June.

Source: Reuters