Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari has called for an end to protests in Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) following clashes that resulted in at least seven deaths. Speaking on Sunday, Nov. 30, 2025, Bhutto-Zardari urged demonstrators to seek a “peaceful conclusion” to the unrest, citing concerns that the instability undermines both the Kashmiri cause and Pakistan’s international reputation as the country prepares for the signing of the Islamabad accord.
What caused the recent unrest in AJK?
The current instability stems from a standoff between the AJK government and the Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC) over governance and electoral reforms. Tensions escalated following the announcement of an election date for July 27. According to AJK police, clashes in Rawalakot led to the deaths of four law enforcement personnel and three individuals linked to the JAAC. The JAAC disputes this account, claiming in a statement on X that seven individuals were killed and dozens injured during a period of darkness after electricity was allegedly cut off.
Why are protesters challenging the election schedule?
The primary point of contention involves 12 legislative assembly seats reserved for Kashmiri refugees who migrated to Pakistan in 1947 and 1965. The JAAC argues the current arrangement is unfair and has advocated for either abolishing these seats or replacing them with four seats in the AJK Council. PPP Azad Kashmir President Chaudhry Yasin noted that while 37 of 38 demands made by the Public Action Committee had been implemented, the constitutional issue of migrant seats remains unresolved. Yasin stated that the PPP has asked the Election Commission to withdraw the “premature election schedule” to allow for further consultation.
What are the potential next steps?
The situation remains uncertain as stakeholders navigate conflicting positions on electoral reform. Bhutto-Zardari proposed the establishment of a Truth and Reconciliation Commission to address long-standing grievances and move toward a “just and lasting conclusion.” If the federal government and other stakeholders reach a consensus, the AJK government could potentially review notifications regarding the protesting parties. However, the JAAC has previously boycotted All Parties Conferences, and with reports of emerging shortages of essential goods in the region, the risk of continued volatility remains a concern for local authorities.
How does this compare to previous protests?
This cycle of unrest follows a period of significant volatility in October 2024, which also resulted in at least nine deaths, including three police officers. During that period, the government and the JAAC reached an agreement on 25 points, including a commitment to form a high-level committee to examine the refugee seat issue. The current impasse suggests that the previous consensus failed to satisfy the demands of the JAAC, leading to a return to street protests instead of parliamentary resolution.
