Why Are Protests Intensifying in Azad Kashmir? The Reserved Seats Dispute, Internet Disruptions, and Growing Public Concerns

 

The Pakistan Times Live | Islamabad Times  

Political tensions in Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) have intensified in recent weeks following a legal dispute over reserved seats, triggering widespread protests, heightened security measures, and growing concerns among local residents. As the region prepares for elections scheduled on July 27, the issue has evolved beyond a political disagreement, with many citizens now feeling the impact on their daily lives.

The controversy gained momentum after the Supreme Court of Azad Kashmir ruled that the reserved seats are constitutionally protected and cannot be abolished without a constitutional amendment. The verdict strengthened the position of groups protesting against proposed changes and encouraged further demonstrations across different parts of the region.

According to official authorities, protests that began on June 4 have resulted in multiple violent incidents, causing fatalities among both civilians and members of law enforcement, while dozens of people have also been injured. Security officials say their priority remains maintaining public order and preventing further violence as political tensions continue to rise.

Ahead of a planned protest march towards Muzaffarabad, authorities deployed nearly 4,000 police and paramilitary personnel across the region. Additional checkpoints were established in sensitive areas, while security arrangements were significantly increased around major roads leading to the capital. Officials described these measures as necessary to ensure public safety and prevent any deterioration of the law and order situation.

However, alongside the political unrest, another issue has become a major concern for residents: internet disruptions. According to local residents, internet services have remained unavailable or severely affected in Lower Topa, Phagwari, Deval, Molia Bakot, and several Abbottabad border areas located opposite Muzaffarabad. Residents say the prolonged disruption has created serious difficulties for thousands of families living in these communities.

Students are among those most affected. Parents report that many children have been unable to attend online classes, access educational platforms, download study materials, or communicate with teachers. At a time when digital learning has become an important part of education, the internet disruption has added another layer of difficulty for families.

Business activity has also been affected. Local residents say services such as Easypaisa, mobile banking applications, online payments, and other internet-based financial transactions have become difficult or impossible to use. Small businesses, shopkeepers, freelancers, and employees who rely on digital connectivity have reported disruptions to their daily work.

Community members believe that while maintaining security is essential during periods of political tension, efforts should also be made to minimise the impact on ordinary citizens. They argue that access to communication, education, and financial services should be restored as quickly as possible whenever security conditions allow.

Meanwhile, protest organisers continue to demand that constitutional and democratic principles be respected regarding the reserved seats issue. Government officials maintain that all decisions are being implemented within the framework of the law and that preparations for the upcoming elections are continuing as scheduled.

With the July 27 elections approaching, Azad Kashmir remains politically sensitive. Whether dialogue, judicial decisions, or political negotiations can ease the current tensions will become clearer in the coming days. For many residents, however, the immediate priority is the restoration of normal life, including reliable internet access, uninterrupted education, and access to essential digital services.

As events continue to unfold, the situation in Azad Kashmir is being closely watched both inside Pakistan and by observers interested in regional political developments. The coming weeks are expected to play a significant role in shaping the region's political and social landscape.