30 Killed in PoK Violence; Khawaja Asif Says Protesters Are 'Enemies Like India'
- By Thetripurapost Desk, Islamabad
- Jul 29, 2026
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Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) has been gripped by one of its most serious political crises in recent years after violent clashes between Protesters and security forces left more than 30 people dead and over 50 injured. The unrest has intensified following Pakistan Defence Minister Khawaja Asif's declaration that the government would not negotiate with those protesting against the administration.
The protests are being spearheaded by the Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC), which has accused Islamabad of manipulating the political structure of Pakistan-occupied Kashmir through reserved refugee seats in the regional assembly.
Khawaja Asif Rules Out Negotiations
Speaking during a televised interview, Defence Minister Khawaja Asif described the protesters as opponents of Pakistan and insisted that the government would not engage in any dialogue with them. His remarks came amid growing tensions after security forces opened fire during a large protest march in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir.
The minister's comments have further fuelled political controversy as criticism mounts over the government's handling of the demonstrations.
More Than 30 Dead in Muzaffarabad Protest Violence
Thousands of demonstrators marched from Rawalakot towards Muzaffarabad under the banner of the Joint Awami Action Committee on Tuesday.
JAAC alleged that security personnel fired on peaceful protesters without warning, resulting in over 30 fatalities and dozens of injuries. Several victims reportedly remain in critical condition.
Pakistan's government has rejected those allegations, claiming the protesters were armed with sophisticated weapons and attacked security forces first, prompting retaliatory action.
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Heavy Security Deployment Across Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir
Following the deadly violence, authorities have strengthened security throughout Pakistan-occupied Kashmir.
Officials have:
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Imposed Section 144 across the region
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Suspended internet services
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Deployed additional military and paramilitary personnel
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Increased armed constabulary patrols
The restrictions are aimed at preventing further protests and restoring law and order.
Why Is JAAC Protesting?
The Joint Awami Action Committee has launched its campaign demanding the abolition of 12 reserved refugee seats in the Pakistan-occupied Kashmir Legislative Assembly.
According to JAAC, these constituencies allow political parties based in Islamabad to influence the formation of governments in PoK.
The organisation argues that only permanent residents of Pakistan-occupied Kashmir should have the constitutional right to elect members of the regional legislature.
The Controversy Over 12 Refugee Seats Explained
The Pakistan-occupied Kashmir Legislative Assembly consists of 53 seats.
Voters for these reserved constituencies reside mainly in Punjab, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and other regions of Pakistan rather than inside PoK itself.
Nearly 600,000 voters are expected to participate in electing representatives for these reserved seats during the current election.
Critics argue that these constituencies often determine the final balance of power in the Assembly, allowing national political parties to shape PoK's government.
Opposition Questions Electoral Transparency
Several opposition parties have also challenged the electoral framework.
Among them, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) has questioned the credibility and fairness of the election process, alleging that the reserved refugee seats can influence government formation in favour of parties backed by Islamabad.
India Rejects PoK Elections
India has dismissed the ongoing electoral exercise in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir as lacking legitimacy.
Ministry of External Affairs (mea) spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated that the elections cannot legitimise what India considers Pakistan's illegal occupation of the territory.
India has consistently maintained that the entire region of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh, including Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, is an integral part of the country.
Why This Story Matters
The latest unrest highlights growing political tensions in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir over electoral representation, governance and regional autonomy. With security restrictions tightened, internet services suspended and political disagreements deepening, the situation remains highly volatile and could have wider implications for regional stability.
Frequently Asked Questions (SEO FAQ)
Why are protests taking place in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir?
Protesters led by JAAC are demanding the removal of 12 reserved refugee seats, claiming they allow Islamabad to influence PoK politics.
How many people died in the PoK protests?
Reports indicate that more than 30 people were killed and over 50 sustained injuries during clashes.
What did Pakistan Defence Minister Khawaja Asif say?
He stated that the government would not negotiate with protesters and described them as enemies of Pakistan.
Why has India rejected the PoK elections?
India maintains that Pakistan-occupied Kashmir is an integral part of India and has described the elections as a "sham exercise."
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