The situation in Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir (POK) has escalated as over 1.5 lakh individuals engaged in protests against the government, following a violent crackdown that resulted in the deaths of 11 civilians. This unrest has prompted heightened security measures from Pakistani authorities, including charges of sedition and the imposition of roadblocks designed to hinder demonstrators from reaching Muzaffarabad.

The protests, organised by the Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC), reflect growing discontent with the governance of Islamabad and the military. Anger towards the Pakistani authorities has been evident, particularly following incidents where security forces fired upon demonstrators on June 8, inciting widespread public outrage across the region.

The JAAC, which is a coalition of civil society groups, was banned by the authorities last week. It has taken a leading role in challenging Islamabad’s authority and advocating for the rights of the local populace. Protesters accuse the government of stifling dissent and neglecting pressing issues around representation and basic rights.

Widespread Demonstrations Across Multiple Towns

These mobilisations follow violent confrontations between protesters and security forces, which resulted in the fatalities and injuries of numerous civilians. Local organisations have reported that more than 100 individuals were injured amid escalating tensions. In response, authorities disrupted internet services in several areas and enforced restrictions on movement to curtail the demonstrations.

Rather than pursuing dialogue, the authorities have opted to intensify their crackdown on dissent. Reports indicate that a bounty of Rs 1 crore has been placed on four prominent protest organisers, while sedition cases have been filed against them. Officials have also accused movement leaders of acting as “Indian agents,” a common allegation aimed at critics and activists in Pakistan.

Government’s Response and Continuing Tensions

To prevent protesters from reaching key locations in Muzaffarabad, officials have implemented various roadblocks, reportedly felling trees and obstructing highways. Many protesters have expressed their frustration at being labelled as “terrorists” for their peaceful demands for basic necessities such as food, employment, and healthcare.

A notable speaker at the protests, Sardar Aman Khan, addressed the crowd, claiming that the unarmed populace is being unjustly portrayed as terrorists by the military and government entities. He further suggested that people across Pakistan, including Balochistan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and Punjab, share a similar sentiment regarding the real source of terror coming from military officials.

India has condemned the actions of Pakistani authorities, characterising the killings as a massacre that highlights Islamabad’s ongoing denial of fundamental rights to individuals living under its jurisdiction. The Indian government has urged the international community to hold Pakistan accountable for the violence and to ensure respect for the rights of POK’s residents.

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