Protests in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoJK) erupted into violence on Tuesday, leaving several civilians dead and many injured as demonstrators clashed with security forces in Muzaffarabad and surrounding areas.
Tensions boiled over in Muzaffarabad, the capital of PoJK, where thousands rallied under the banner of the Jammu Kashmir Joint Awami Action Committee (JKJAAC). The group leads a massive push for change, backed by a 38-point list of demands. Over the past three days, these protests have turned deadly, with reports of at least half a dozen deaths and serious injuries from clashes with police and forces.
At the heart of the unrest is frustration over unfulfilled promises. Protesters want the government to scrap 12 reserved legislative seats for Kashmiri refugees settled in Pakistan. They also demand real economic relief: lower electricity bills, cheaper subsidized wheat flour, and an end to special perks for officials. On top of that, they’re calling for free education and healthcare for everyone in PoJK.
Social media posts from the ground paint a grim picture. One user, Nadeem, shared on X: “Muzaffarabad: Three young men martyred as a result of firing by forces.” Zubia Mughal added urgency with this update: “Breaking News: Another young man has been martyred in Muzaffarabad. Dhirkot at the location of Chamyati, people face direct fire and shelling. The situation in Dadyal is also extremely tense. Shelling intensifies on protesters.”
The JKJAAC welcomes talks with the government but sets clear conditions first. Central leader Umar Nazir Kashmir shared a tense encounter on X via Ehtesabb TV: “Last night, two individuals entered our area after the electricity was cut off. When the public caught them, they claimed to be labourers. Later, when the public interrogated them, it was revealed that they are our elder brothers (Int personnel). We have recorded their entire WhatsApp chat on video… We are demanding our rights through our assembly. We are not against anyone, but we will no longer compromise on our fundamental rights.”
The committee pushed back against rumors in another X statement: “False propaganda is being spread regarding the lockdown – the general public should not pay attention to rumours – the lockdown will continue until the demands are approved – Sardar Umar Nazir Kashmiri.”
Sohaib Khan highlighted the human cost from Muzaffarabad: “News of another young person martyrdom (Muzaffarabad, Oct 01) has come… Kashmiris are actively protesting, exercising their right to peaceful protest to achieve their fundamental rights. In return, they are being given bullets and dead bodies. The rulers will have to pay the price for this.” He also posted videos from Azad Pattan, showing thousands marching peacefully after local leader Sardar Amman Khan urged calm.
Clashes didn’t stop there. Shafiq Ahmad Adv reported on X: “Reports are coming in of clashes between police and protesters in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, and besides chasing away the Islamabad police by beating them with sticks, the protesters have also apprehended and beaten with sticks a few agents of agencies who had joined the gathering with the intent of creating chaos.” He added a rallying cry: “Kashmiris are awakening… Long live the resistance.”
The movement gained steam as caravans from Neelum and a long march from Mirpur Division headed toward Muzaffarabad, despite obstacles. Pashtoon Khan noted on X how unexpected this widespread uprising feels: “None expected such a widespread uprising, that too when the tiny strip of Kashmir is enjoying a large number of concessions in power bills, etc.”
As the protests rage on, authorities detained a key figure. Raja Amjad Ali Khan Advocate, a core committee member of the JKJAAC, got held up at Islamabad Airport on Wednesday morning. His family says officials took his passport around 7:45 a.m., citing reports against him from “institutions.” He couldn’t leave the premises, and his whereabouts stayed unknown by midday, while his family was allowed to go.
Stay informed on all the latest news, real-time breaking news updates, and follow all the important headlines in world News on Latest NewsX. Follow us on social media Facebook, Twitter(X), Gettr and subscribe our Youtube Channel.
