At least 15 people, including 11 civilians and four security personnel, have been killed in violent confrontations between protesters and security forces in Pakistan-administered Kashmir, according to local authorities. The unrest stems from widespread opposition to the reservation of 12 seats in the region's legislative assembly for refugees who migrated from Indian-administered Kashmir decades ago. Critics argue that the arrangement denies local residents a fair share of political representation, as the reserved seats account for nearly one-fourth of the assembly.

The crackdown, however, has failed to deter protesters. Official estimates suggest that more than 10,000 demonstrators are currently moving toward Muzaffarabad. Local officials report that a large convoy remains just a few kilometers from Rawalakot, where security forces have established checkpoints and patrols to prevent the march from advancing further.

Residents in several areas have been advised to remain indoors as authorities seek to maintain control of the situation. Local mosques have reportedly broadcast announcements urging people not to leave their homes amid fears that violence could escalate further. Security measures have been significantly increased throughout the region. Surveillance helicopters have been deployed over Muzaffarabad and Rawalakot, while police and paramilitary forces remain on high alert.

The controversy surrounding the reserved assembly seats has been building for years. The seats were originally created to ensure political representation for refugees displaced from Indian-administered Kashmir who settled in Pakistan while awaiting a resolution to the long-standing Kashmir dispute.

Protest leaders argue that only residents currently living in Pakistan-administered Kashmir should be eligible to contest seats in the local legislature. Authorities counter that the constitutional arrangement protects the political rights of displaced Kashmiris and cannot be altered through public pressure. The Supreme Court of Pakistan-administered Kashmir recently reinforced that position, ruling that the reserved seats are constitutionally protected and beyond the scope of administrative or political modification.

The current wave of unrest follows similar confrontations last year, when the JAAC organized demonstrations over a broader list of political and economic demands. While authorities claim that most of those demands were addressed, the issue of reserved seats remains unresolved. Human rights organizations have expressed concern over the government's response. Amnesty International has criticized reports of internet shutdowns, mass arrests, and the use of force against demonstrators, warning of a worsening human rights situation in the region.