Azad Jammu and Kashmir has been gripped by unrest since early June, with routine life disrupted as the regional administration attempts to quell protests led by the now‑banned Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC), a coalition of political and civil society groups. The situation has escalated into violent confrontations that have claimed around 30 lives, including both security personnel and civilians. Rawalakot, the epicentre of the protest movement, has remained under curfew for nearly six weeks, underscoring the severity of the crisis.

The JAAC’s demands have centred on governance and economic issues, many of which have already been accepted by the authorities. However, the group’s insistence on abolishing seats in the AJK legislature reserved for refugees from Indian‑occupied Kashmir has created a deadlock. Tensions boiled over on Tuesday, resulting in at least nine deaths, while the JAAC pressed ahead with its “long march” towards Muzaffarabad the following day.

The immediate priority for all stakeholders must be the restoration of calm. Too many lives have been lost, and while violent elements must face prosecution, the broader conflict can only be resolved through political dialogue. Officials have alleged that some JAAC activists are armed, but armed action against the state cannot be tolerated. Those responsible for attacks on law enforcement must be held accountable. At the same time, both sides must show flexibility and avoid hardening their positions further.

The authorities have legitimate concerns about the JAAC’s methods and certain demands, yet history shows that attempts to crush popular movements through force often backfire. Engagement and dialogue remain the only viable path forward. The JAAC, for its part, must communicate its demands peacefully and recognise that constitutional matters, such as refugee seats, can only be settled through legislative debate rather than street agitation.

Political actors across AJK and Pakistan have begun to step in. PPP chairman Bilawal Bhutto‑Zardari has proposed a truth and reconciliation commission to address grievances, while Jamaat‑i‑Islami has formed a “peace jirga” to mediate between the administration and the JAAC. The PTI has called for a multiparty conference to build national consensus, particularly in view of the upcoming regional elections later this month. These initiatives highlight the importance of creating a peaceful environment and ensuring a level playing field for all contenders.

The government must therefore complement administrative and security measures with sustained political engagement. Listening carefully to the JAAC’s concerns and addressing them through dialogue will be essential to restoring normalcy. Only by keeping political channels open and demonstrating a commitment to constitutional processes can the cycle of violence be broken and stability returned to AJK.

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