Azad Kashmir Newspaper

Media Landscape in Pakistani-Administered Kashmir

In Pakistani-administered Kashmir, press freedom is limited by strict regulations—especially on issues related to the region's political status. Media outlets require government approval to operate, and coverage generally aligns with Pakistan’s official stance on Kashmir. Several independent newspapers have been shut down in recent years, and poor telecom infrastructure restricts digital access. Most local papers lack consistent online presence, and foreign journalists are barred without prior state approval.

Daily Jammu Kashmir Times

Published from Muzaffarabad, this is AJK's most widely circulated newspaper with comprehensive coverage of local, national, and international news since 1985.

Language: Urdu Founded: 1985

Daily Shaheen

The dominant newspaper in southern AJK, known for its investigative reporting on Mirpur development projects and diaspora issues.

Language: Urdu/English HQ: Mirpur

Daily Kashmir Express

Distributed across all 10 AJK districts and Gilgit-Baltistan, featuring special Friday editions with cultural supplements.

Language: Urdu Circulation: 25,000+

Daily Sada-e-Chinar

Muzaffarabad's analytical newspaper with renowned opinion columns on Kashmir conflict and regional geopolitics.

Language: Urdu Specialty: Editorials

Daily Domel

Named after the Domel junction, this paper focuses on Kotli, Bhimber and Poonch districts with hyperlocal reporting.

Language: Urdu Est.: 1992

Daily Kashmir Post

Rawalakot-based publication known for its environmental reporting on Neelum Valley's ecosystem.

Language: Urdu Focus: Ecology

Daily Kashmir Link

Unique UK-AJK hybrid newspaper with dedicated sections for Mirpuri diaspora communities in Britain.

Language: Urdu/English Editions: 3/week

Daily Tameer-e-Millat

Educational-focused publication run by AJK's teachers association, covering school reforms and literacy programs.

Language: Urdu Publisher: AJKTA

Daily Al-Qalam

Religious-cultural newspaper analyzing Islamic scholarship in Kashmiri context with Friday special editions.

Language: Urdu/Arabic Frequency: Weekly

The Digital Transformation of AJK's Press

Azad Kashmir's newspaper industry is undergoing a significant digital revolution:

  • E-Paper Adoption: 7 of these 9 newspapers now offer digital editions
  • Mobile Journalism: Reporters increasingly file stories via smartphones
  • Diaspora Reach: UK-based Kashmiris constitute 40% of digital readership
  • Revenue Models: Paywalls being tested by Daily Kashmir Express

This shift enables real-time reporting on LoC developments and faster response to humanitarian crises.

Journalists using digital devices in Muzaffarabad newsroom

These newspapers form the fourth pillar of AJK's democracy, with a combined readership exceeding 500,000. The Azadi Times documents their evolving role through our Media Monitor initiative.

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