Rawalakot: center of politics and risk in Azad Kashmir amid clashes over refugee representation and security crises.
Clashes in Rawalakot have left multiple dead and wounded after the Supreme Court upheld protections for 12 refugee seats in Azad Jammu and Kashmir’s assembly. Authorities have banned JAAC and suspended internet, while protests plan a march to Muzaffarabad.
A Russian-built Mi-17 helicopter crashed on takeoff near Muzaffarabad, Pakistan-administered Kashmir, killing 22 military personnel including officers. An inquiry has been ordered to determine the exact technical cause as protests and security operations unfold in the region.
Clashes in Pakistan-administered Kashmir have killed dozens as polling begins in phased local elections. Authorities say security forces are dispersing protests; rights groups report casualties and a communications blackout that hampers coverage. JAAC, a banned group, demands electoral reform, including abolition of refugee seats.