The political crisis in Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK) has intensified ahead of the July 27 Legislative Assembly elections.The Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC), a grassroots movement initially focused on economic demands, has expanded its agenda to demand self-rule and institutional reforms.

After negotiations with authorities failed, the JAAC called for a boycott of the elections, citing unresolved issues like the abolition of 12 refugee seats in the PoJK Legislative Assembly.The government responded with a crackdown, banning the JAAC, imposing internet shutdowns, and deploying paramilitary forces.Protests continued despite restrictions, with demonstrators setting up permanent sit-in camps and facing alleged security force violence.

International diaspora groups have also protested against Pakistan's treatment of Kashmiris, highlighting systemic issues in Pakistani governance.

The situation underscores tensions between local populations and the federal government, with concerns about human rights violations and political suppression.