While AJK enjoys some level of autonomy, it does not possess full state sovereignty because ultimate decision-making authority rests with Pakistan. Protest leaders claim significantly higher civilian casualties than those acknowledged by public officials, accusing the government of suppressing dissent through arrests and placing restrictions on movement. The Pakistan government has rejected allegations by rights groups that they have suppressed peaceful protests, arguing that they directed security officials to combat attempts to destabilize the region. Security officials have expressed regret over loss of civilian lives while maintaining that attacks on law enforcement personnel necessitated a response from law enforcement. The unfolding crisis presents a significant political challenge for both AJK administration and federal government in Islamabad.