A major strike called by the Jammu Kashmir Joint Awami Action Committee has brought normal life to a standstill across Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir, with markets, commercial centres and business establishments remaining shut in several key districts.

The protest movement has gained particular momentum in Rawalakot, where thousands of people have gathered for a large sit-in, raising concerns over alleged state repression, fatal violence, a prolonged internet shutdown and restrictions on media coverage in the region.

Markets Closed And Transport Services Suspended

The shutdown has affected several parts of Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir, including Bhimber, Mirpur, Muzaffarabad, Neelum Valley and Rawalakot.

Commercial hubs and local markets remained completely closed, while business establishments suspended operations in response to the strike call.

Public transport services were also affected, with major roads and arterial routes largely deserted as the shutdown disrupted routine movement across the region.

Thousands Gather For Rawalakot Sit-In

The protest has reached its most intense phase in Rawalakot, where thousands of residents continue to participate in a massive sit-in demonstration.

Protesters have raised their voice against what they describe as continuing state repression and fatal violence in the region.

The demonstrators are also protesting against a three-month internet shutdown and a media blackout that they say has restricted the flow of information from across Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir.

Protest Leader Stresses Non-Violent Approach

Addressing the large gathering in Rawalakot, prominent leader Sardar Umar Nazir Kashmiri underlined that the Jammu Kashmir Joint Awami Action Committee’s agitation was committed to a non-violent course.

Kashmiri explicitly distanced the protest movement from armed resistance and from any provocations by outside actors, stressing that the committee’s strategy remained peaceful.

He said any individual who chose to take up arms in response to the establishment’s actions would be acting in a personal capacity and would not represent the Awami Action Committee.

The leader reiterated that the committee remained unequivocally committed to pursuing its demands through peaceful protest as the strike and demonstrations continued across Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir.

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