At least nine people were killed in fresh clashes in Pakistan-administered Kashmir on Tuesday, forcing a planned protest march to the regional capital, Muzaffarabad, to temporarily stall.
According to local authorities, the violence began after security forces raided a house near Rawalakot in Poonch district following intelligence about a suspected weapons cache. Officials said security personnel came under gunfire during the operation, resulting in the death of a police officer.
In a separate incident in Sudhnoti district, protesters reportedly blocked a security convoy. Authorities said the convoy was attacked with stones and gunfire, leading to clashes that left seven protesters and another police officer dead. Police maintained that officers acted in self-defence.
The unrest is linked to demonstrations organised by the Jammu Kashmir Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC), a group banned under Pakistan's anti-terrorism laws in June. Protesters are demanding political reforms, particularly changes to the allocation of reserved seats in the region's legislature.
Although demonstrators had announced plans to march to Muzaffarabad on Wednesday, they remained gathered in Rawalakot as security forces tightened restrictions. Internet and mobile phone services have also been limited in parts of the region.
Officials in Muzaffarabad said the city remained calm despite the heightened security presence. Authorities have deployed about 4,000 police and paramilitary personnel ahead of the planned march.
The political dispute centres on 12 legislative seats reserved for Kashmiri refugees living outside the region. Protest leaders argue the arrangement gives Pakistan-based political parties undue influence over the region's government.
Regional elections are scheduled for July 27. Since protests began in early June, officials say at least 28 people have been killed and 79 others injured.
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