AJK Clashes Turn Deadly in Rawalakot, Multiple Dead Reported

The Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) Supreme Court has said that the 12 refugee seats in the Legislative Assembly are fully protected under the Constitution and cannot be changed through administrative orders. It stated that any alteration to these seats can only be made through a constitutional amendment approved by the assembly.

Supporting the government’s stance, that street protests cannot be used to alter constitutional matters. It said that only the elected assembly is empowered to resolve such matters through constitutional and democratic means.

The opinion came after a Presidential Reference filed by the AJK president on government advice. The court said refugee seats are protected under the Constitution and any change would require a formal amendment process.

For the meantime, a different incident, In Rawalakot, armed men, allegedly tied to a banned group attacked security personnel. 20 were wounded and two officials lost their lives. Officials labeled it a severe security event and guaranteed firm action.

Officials from police and administration stated they are ensuring law and order with several people already arrested in connection with the unrest.

In a separate statement, political leaders, including Bilawal Bhutto Zardari said AJK issues should be settled through talks instead of conflict.

Due to rising tensions and expected protests multiple countries have issued alerts for AJK, advising citizens to stay away non-essential travel to the region.