Intensifying Protests in Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir Prompt Government Response

Protests Escalate in Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir

Muzaffarabad: Protests in Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir (POK) have escalated, prompting local authorities to offer a reward of 10 million Pakistani rupees for information leading to the arrest of four leaders from the Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC). This group, which was banned last year, has been at the forefront of the protests in the region. The POK Home Department issued a notice regarding this reward on Wednesday. Following a notification that highlighted the reward for information about JAAC's central leader Showket Nawaz Mir, police have also charged him with sedition under Section 124A of the Anti-Terrorism Act due to his public speeches and communications.

The notification stated, "The President of Azad Jammu and Kashmir has approved a reward of Rs 10 million for anyone providing information that leads to the successful arrest of the offenders associated with the banned Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC)." The JAAC is recognized as a civil society group in POK. Reports indicate that dozens have died during police crackdowns on protests, with around 200 individuals injured.

Amnesty International's Stance: Earlier today, Amnesty International condemned Pakistan's extensive crackdown on protests in POK, accusing the government of employing excessive force, stifling dissent, and violating basic human rights ahead of the upcoming regional elections. The organization criticized the classification of JAAC as a "proscribed organization" under anti-terrorism laws. On June 5, coinciding with the announcement of regional elections set for July 27, authorities suspended internet and mobile services throughout the territory and imposed movement restrictions. Visitors and tourists were advised to vacate the area, and reports suggested the deployment of federal paramilitary forces.

Reasons Behind the Protests: The protests began after the POK government banned the JAAC, a grassroots movement that has garnered support for addressing issues like rising inflation, electricity costs, taxation policies, and what supporters describe as the region's enduring political marginalization. The JAAC had organized a protest march to urge the government to adopt a 38-point agenda, which includes demands for subsidized flour and electricity. Following the ban, protests surged across the region. The JAAC is also advocating for the elimination of 12 "refugee seats" in the POK Legislative Assembly, which are reserved for refugees from Kashmir who settled in Pakistan post-1947. The JAAC claims these seats are often exploited by mainstream Pakistani political parties to sway government formation in Muzaffarabad.

India's Reaction: India has expressed strong disapproval of Pakistan's recent elections, asserting that POK is "illegally and forcibly" occupied by Pakistan.