India, July 7 -- 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, including internet shutdowns and prohibitory orders, while the group has called for a boycott of the upcoming elections.

The JAAC emerged in 2023 as a grassroots platform protesting rising electricity tariffs, wheat prices and other economic hardships. Over tim...