Pakistan-administered Kashmir clashes kill 11 before rally
The Kashmir Conflict Escalates
At least 11 people have been killed as police clashed with supporters of an outlawed group in Pakistan-administered Kashmir, officials said on Monday, a day before a planned protest over political rights and legislative representation.
Clashes Erupt in Pakistan-administered Kashmir
Dozens of others, including police officers and civilians, were wounded in the violence that erupted Sunday after the Supreme Court of Pakistan-administered Kashmir ruled that 12 legislative seats reserved for Kashmiri refugees living in Pakistan are constitutionally protected and cannot be abolished without a constitutional amendment.
The Data Behind the Violence
- 11 people killed in clashes
- Dozens injured, including police officers and civilians
- 30 offenders arrested in the Himalayan region
- 23 security officials and 50 protesters injured
The Impact on the Region
The landmark ruling came before a rally planned for Tuesday by the outlawed Joint Awami Action Committee, or JAAC, which has long demanded greater political rights for people in the region and the abolition of the refugee seats, on the grounds that the refugees have disproportionate influence.
The Future of Kashmir
The group has organised large protests in recent years, a number of which have turned violent. Authorities said security forces eventually dispersed the crowd and restored order. Police accused protesters of setting fires and damaging government and private property.