At Least 15 Killed in Violent Protests in Pakistan-Administered Kashmir

At least 15 people were killed and dozens injured during violent clashes in protests across Pakistan-administered Kashmir. The casualties included 11 civilians and four security personnel.

The demonstrations were sparked by the Joint People's Action Committee's call for a march to Muzaffarabad. The group opposed the allocation of twelve seats in the local parliament to Kashmiri refugees.

Authorities banned the organizing committee and ordered the arrest of its leaders on accusations of anti-state actions. Thousands joined the protests despite the restrictions, resulting in clashes with security forces in several areas.

Participants demand that the seats allocated to refugees be canceled and that all seats be reserved for residents of the region.

The Supreme Court of Pakistan-administered Kashmir has stated that the seats are constitutional and cannot be canceled.

Amnesty International condemned the suppression of the protests, the widespread arrests, and the lethal use of force by security forces.