What is happening in PoK? Nine killed amid clashes over political oppression and economic exploitation?
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Synopsis
Violent clashes in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir have resulted in nine deaths, including three policemen, amid a strike by the Joint Awami Action Committee. The protests demand reforms and essential public services, highlighting serious issues of political repression and economic exploitation in the region. The ongoing turmoil has led to significant unrest and calls for justice.
Key Takeaways
- Ongoing clashes in PoK have led to significant casualties.
- The Joint Awami Action Committee is advocating for essential reforms.
- Business operations have been severely disrupted due to the strike.
- The government has made some concessions, but tensions remain high.
- Calls for justice and reform are resonating throughout the region.
Islamabad, Oct 2 (NationPress) Ongoing violent confrontations in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) have led to the deaths of nine individuals, including three police officers, during a strike initiated by the Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC) advocating for essential reforms and public services in the region, as reported by local media citing officials.
Business operations and other activities have been paralyzed in PoK due to the strike, which has also caused significant disruptions in communication, according to the Pakistani daily The Express Tribune. Violence has erupted in areas such as Dhir Kot and various parts of PoK, resulting in injuries to 172 police personnel and 50 civilians.
The regions of Muzaffarabad, Mirpur, Poonch, Neelum, Bhimber, and Palandri have come to a halt following the strike called by JAAC central leader Shaukat Nawaz Mir. Shops were closed, roads were obstructed, and internet services were limited in Muzaffarabad, except for areas adjoining Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa.
During an assault by armed JAAC members in Dhir Kot, three police officers lost their lives and nine others sustained injuries, as reported by local sources. The JAAC's strike aims to address multiple demands, including the termination of privileges enjoyed by the ruling elite, the abolition of 12 assembly seats reserved for refugees, and the elimination of the quota system.
Moreover, the committee has called for the establishment of free and uniform education, access to free healthcare, judicial reforms, and the development of an international airport.
Officials have stated that the government has acquiesced to several demands presented by the JAAC. However, negotiations collapsed when no consensus was reached on the remaining issues, prompting JAAC to instigate protests and a continuous strike, which has now entered its third day.
Business activities in the region are still stalled, with protesters blocking entry points linking PoK to Pakistan. Reports indicate that fierce clashes have erupted between demonstrators and police forces, with protests frequently escalating into violence.
Meanwhile, Shaukat Nawaz Mir, a prominent leader of the Awami Action Committee in PoK, has condemned the Pakistani government and military for their oppression of local residents. He likened the government to a witch intent on harming the populace, asserting that the so-called “Azad Kashmir” is anything but free.
Mir recalled statements made by Pakistan Army Chief General Asim Munir, who labeled Hindus as “kaafir” before the Pahalgam incident, accusing Pakistani leaders of committing atrocities in PoK while accusing others of doing the same.
He emphasized that the voices of ordinary citizens are being suppressed, media is being muzzled, and questioned the legitimacy of Pakistani forces that “kill those they claim to represent”.
Point of View
It's vital to acknowledge the ongoing struggles faced by the people in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. The unrest reflects deep-seated issues that need addressing, from political repression to economic exploitation. As a nation, we must support the voices advocating for justice, ensuring that the rights of all citizens are respected and upheld.
NationPress
02/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What sparked the ongoing clashes in PoK?
The clashes were ignited by a strike called by the Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC) demanding reforms and public services in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir.
How many people have been killed in the recent violence?
Nine individuals, including three police officers, have been reported killed amid the violent clashes.
What are the main demands of the JAAC?
The JAAC is demanding an end to the privileges of the ruling elite, abolition of assembly seats reserved for refugees, judicial reforms, and improved public services.
What areas are most affected by the strike?
Regions such as Muzaffarabad, Mirpur, Poonch, Neelum, Bhimber, and Palandri are significantly impacted by the ongoing strike and protests.
What has been the government's response to the protests?
The government has accepted several demands from the JAAC, but talks collapsed over remaining issues, leading to continued protests.
