Tensions escalate in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) as clashes between protesters and security forces continue, leading to disruptions in normal life and business activities. Markets, schools, and offices remain shuttered for the second consecutive day in Mirpur, Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK), following bouts of violence that originated in Muzaffarabad.
The Awami Action Committee (AAC) initiated protests against inflation on Friday, prompting a significant crackdown by Pakistani security forces, according to local media reports. The escalation led to a wheel-jam and shutter-down strike in Muzaffarabad on May 10, with AAC members vowing to intensify protests against perceived injustices.
The AAC’s peaceful demonstrations against high taxes, electricity bills, and inflation turned violent as clashes erupted with police forces near residential areas and mosques, as reported by Dawn. Subsequently, strikes were called across various parts of PoK, including Samahni, Sehansa, Mirpur, Rawalakot, Khuiratta, Tattapani, and Hattian Bala.
In response to the unrest, the PoK government imposed Section 144, resulting in the closure of educational institutions and offices on May 10 and 11. Despite these measures, thousands of people defied restrictions and rallied across PoK districts on Saturday.
Social media footage depicted police wielding batons and employing tear gas to disperse protestors, with reports of numerous injuries to both police personnel and demonstrators. PoK activist Amjad Ayub Mirza alleged casualties among unarmed civilians, with claims of at least two fatalities and the reported lynching of a police SHO by protesters.
Mirza urged intervention from the Indian government, emphasizing the escalating crisis in PoK and advocating for support toward the region’s independence, including Gilgit-Baltistan. He stressed the urgency for concerted efforts to address the volatile situation, urging India to play an active role in facilitating the liberation of occupied territories.
