12 killed as protests intensify across Pakistan-Occupied Jammu & Kashmir

Twelve civilians have been killed over the past three days in Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (POJK) after security forces allegedly opened fire on peaceful demonstrators. Protests over political and economic issues have now turned into violent clashes with Pakistani security forces.

 

 

The latest and most severe clashes on Wednesday left eight dead near Neelum Bridge and adjoining areas, while fatalities were also reported in Bagh district, Muzaffarabad and Mirpur, as per reports.

 

 

Protests led by the Jammu Kashmir Awami Action Committee (JKAAC) have brought life to a standstill in POJK over the past 3 days. Heavily armed forces carried out flag marches in several towns, with thousands of troops sent from Punjab and another 1,000 personnel deployed from Islamabad.

 

 

The Joint Awami Action Committee had called for a complete shutdown and wheel jam strike on 29 September to highlight growing public anger over deprivation and exploitation.

 

 

Initially peaceful, the demonstrations have now spread across several districts. Shops, businesses, and transport services remain shut, showing deep anger over Islamabad’s handling of the crisis.

 

 

Authorities imposed an indefinite lockdown last week to curb unrest, but the move only added to public outrage. Protesters accuse the government of ignoring the JKJAAC’s 38 demands, including the removal of reserved legislative seats for Kashmiri refugees living in Pakistan.

 

 

Apart from political reforms, the protestors are demanding urgent economic relief, lower electricity tariffs, subsidised wheat flour, and an end to perks for officials. They also seek free education and health facilities for people in POJK.

(With inputs from agencies)