Clashes in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir continue during elections; JAAC says 37 killed

Published Jul 30, 05:08 PM UTC

Tensions are high in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) as clashes between security forces and the banned Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC) continue, with several deaths reported this week. The protests, ongoing for nearly two months, center on 12 contentious legislative seats that activists allege are manipulated by the establishment to install a preferred Prime Minister. India has condemned the elections as an attempt to mask Pakistan's illegal occupation and human rights abuses. The JAAC claims at least 37 people, including women and children, have been killed, while Pakistan denies civilian casualties, asserting that Tehrik-e Taliban militants are among the protesters. Amnesty International and the Human Rights Commission of Pakistan have called for an investigation.