Pakistan‑administered Kashmir hit by JAAC‑called strike, markets shut

On Tuesday, a strike called by the recently banned Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC) led to the shutdown of shops, markets and public transport across Pakistan‑administered Kashmir, with streets in Muzaffarabad and other towns largely empty.

The protest follows Sunday clashes in Rawalakot that left seven dead after the Supreme Court of Pakistan‑administered Kashmir ruled that 12 legislative seats reserved for Kashmiri refugees are constitutionally protected. JAAC demands abolition of those seats and greater political rights.

Authorities deployed additional police and paramilitary forces, suspended internet services, arrested several JAAC leaders, and announced a 10‑million‑rupee reward for information leading to the arrest of key figures such as Shaukat Nawaz Mir.

The regional government has banned JAAC, detained dozens of supporters, and urged a return to negotiations, while human‑rights observers expressed alarm at the escalating violence.