The political crisis in Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK) has intensified weeks ahead of the territory’s July 27 Legislative Assembly elections, with the Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC) expanding its campaign from economic demands to a broader movement seeking political rights, self-rule and institutional reforms. The latest phase of the unrest comes after Pakistan’s authorities banned the JAAC, launched a security crackdown and imposed restrictions. The latest phase of the unrest comes after Pakistan‘s authorities banned the JAAC, launched a security crackdown and imposed restrictions, including internet shutdowns and prohibitory orders, while the group has called for a boycott of the upcoming elections. From economic grievances to political movement The JAAC emerged in 2023 as a grassroots platform protesting rising electricity tariffs, wheat prices and other economic hardships. Over time, however, the movement broadened its agenda, framing its campaign around what it describes as the “right to ownership and self-rule”. Its demands were eventually consolidated into a 38-point charter, with one of its central demands being the abolition of 12 reserved refugee seats in the …