Protests Erupt in Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir Amidst Violence and Tensions

Protests and Shutdowns in Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir

Following a call for protests by the 'Joint Awami Action Committee', shops and markets across various regions of Pakistan-occupied Kashmir remained closed on Tuesday. Recent police actions in the area have reportedly resulted in the deaths of over 20 individuals.

According to reports, around 2,000 demonstrators associated with the committee initiated a protest march from Bhimber, aiming to reach Mirpur before heading towards Muzaffarabad.

Some protesters are also expected to advance to Muzaffarabad after reaching Rawalakot. Police and security personnel have been patrolling the streets and other areas. The committee has been protesting for subsidized flour and electricity. Authorities imposed a ban on the group on Friday, citing concerns over public order and safety.

As reported by a news outlet, the streets of Muzaffarabad were deserted, with very few vehicles seen on the roads. Riot police and paramilitary forces have been deployed in the city.

Despite the heightened security, no protests occurred within the city. In another major city of POK, Mirpur, hundreds gathered at the Quaid-e-Azam Stadium. Local journalist Sajjad Jarral informed a news outlet, 'Shops are closed here, and traffic is nonexistent on the roads.'

In response to the alleged arrest of senior lawyer Amjad Ali Khan, POK lawyers, under the Bar Council's directive, boycotted judicial proceedings. Amjad Ali Khan is a prominent member of the committee.

The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan expressed deep concern on Monday regarding the ongoing violence and clashes in POK. Authorities have announced rewards for information leading to the arrest of key leaders of the committee. Meanwhile, the so-called Prime Minister of POK, Faisal Mumtaz Rathore, has urged a return to dialogue to alleviate the tensions that have gripped the region in recent days.