Internet connectivity in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir has been largely unavailable for more than 100 days, significantly impacting the lives of residents. Following the imposition of a new government amid widespread protests, mobile data and broadband services are reportedly still disrupted. The independent organisation NetBlocks indicates that the partial internet blackout commenced on June 5. Since that date, access to various websites and applications has remained problematic, hindering activities such as online banking.

The extended internet disruption has adversely affected both daily life and economic activities within the region. Many individuals have reported challenges in communicating with family members, attending online classes, and conducting businesses effectively. Students’ academic schedules have also been disrupted, leading to the postponement of entrance examinations that are critical for their future education.

The origin of these internet restrictions can be traced back to government actions against protests demanding electoral reforms and modifications to the political structure in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. As tensions escalated, the local authorities moved decisively to quell dissent.

Violence Erupts Amidst Protests and Elections

The unrest intensified in anticipation of local elections originally set for July 27. The Jammu Kashmir Joint Awami Action Committee (JKJAAC), a grassroots coalition advocating for various reforms, spearheaded the protests. The organisation called for the abolishment of 12 designated legislative seats allocated to refugees from Kashmir who relocated to other regions of Pakistan.

On June 5, the same day the internet restrictions began, authorities imposed a ban on the JKJAAC. In the wake of the protests, violence broke out, with deadly confrontations reported on July 27. Local estimates place the death toll at over 50, including seven members of law enforcement. A statement from the JKJAAC alleges that 89 civilians lost their lives during the protests and subsequent crackdowns between June 5 and August 5, 2026, although these figures lack independent corroboration.

The elections occurred under turbulent conditions, with reports of violence and claims of electoral malpractice. The JKJAAC called for a boycott, but chaotic incidents were reported on the polling day, including ballot box theft and arson in Bhimber. Voting was also interrupted at various stations in Kotli and Bhimber. To address security concerns, authorities divided the election into three phases scheduled for July 27, August 2, and August 10. Ultimately, only four out of eleven constituencies completed the voting process, while the remaining seven were delayed due to ongoing unrest.

Formation of New Government Amid Ongoing Tensions

Amid continuing protests, lawmakers in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir elected Syed Iftikhar Ali Gillani as Prime Minister. Gillani secured 30 out of 44 votes cast in the legislative assembly, as confirmed by election officials. He represents the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N), managing to defeat his opponent, Mukhtar Ahmed Abbasi of the Pakistan Peoples Party, who obtained 14 votes. This election marked the PML-N’s return to power in the region after a decade.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif extended his congratulations to Gillani upon his election. The results followed a series of legislative elections in which candidates endorsed by former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif gained significant support. These elections were staggered due to security issues and occurred amidst a boycott led by the banned JKJAAC.

Despite being outlawed, the JKJAAC has continued to organise rallies, with the regional government citing security and public order concerns as reasons for the ban. Meanwhile, India’s stance on Pakistan-occupied Kashmir remains clear, asserting that the entire territory, including areas under illegal Pakistani control, is a vital part of India. The ongoing political instability and security challenges in the region have sparked renewed discussions about governance and the grievances voiced by local populations.

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