A nationwide strike and widespread restrictions have disrupted daily life in the region as protests spread in Pakistan-administered Kashmir, with at least 24 people killed in nearly two weeks of unrest.
The protests began in opposition to the allocation of 12 special seats for Kashmiri migrants in the July 27 elections to the regional legislative assembly.
Police announced that four police officers were killed, 97 people were injured, and 515 people were arrested in connection with the clashes.
At the same time, thousands of supporters of the Awami Joint Action Committee have gathered on the outskirts of Rawalakot, and the Pakistani government has blocked main roads, cut off the internet, and imposed restrictions on media activities to contain the unrest.
The ongoing strike and restrictions have caused markets, banks, gas stations, and many commercial centers to cease operations, and a number of residents say they have not had any income since the protests began.
