Kashmir is ours... POK turns into a battleground, protesters clash with army, 12 killed in firing

Islamabad: Violent clashes continue in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). At least 12 people, including three policemen, were killed during a strike called by the United Awami Action Committee (JAC) to demand improvements and public amenities in the region. Most of the deaths were caused by police and army firing. The protests, which began after the Pakistan government failed to meet 38 key demands, have morphed into a widespread movement against military excesses, bringing the region to a standstill.

172 policemen and 50 civilians injured

The Pakistani daily The Express Tribune reported on Thursday that the strike halted trade and other activities in PoK and disrupted communications in the region. Incidents of violence occurred in Dhir Kot and other parts of PoK. Local officials said 172 policemen and 50 civilians were injured in the clashes.

The government deployed thousands of troops

The strike was called by JAAC central leader Shaukat Nawaz Mir. It paralyzed normal life in Muzaffarabad, Mirpur, Poonch, Neelam, Bhimber, and Palandri areas. Markets remained closed in Muzaffarabad, except in areas bordering Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, roads were blocked, and internet services were restricted. The government has deployed thousands of additional troops to quell the unrest.

Battle between police and protesters

Citing reports, the newspaper reported that armed men affiliated with the JAAC attacked a police station in Dhir Kot, killing three policemen and injuring nine others. The JAAC has called the strike to press for several demands, including an end to privileges enjoyed by the ruling elite, the abolition of 12 assembly seats reserved for refugees, and the removal of the quota system.

Government Rejects Protesters’ Demands

In addition, the committee demanded free and equal education throughout the region, free healthcare, improved judicial functions in the region, and the development of an international airport. According to officials, the government has accepted many of JAAC's demands. However, talks between the two sides failed after agreement could not be reached on some issues. Following the failure of the talks, JAAC called for protests and a strike, which continued for the third consecutive day on Wednesday.

Roads connecting PoK with Pakistan closed

Commercial activities in the region remained disrupted as protesters blocked entry points connecting PoK to Pakistan. Reports from various areas of PoK indicated that fierce clashes broke out between protesters and police forces. Meanwhile, Shaukat Nawaz Mir, a top leader of the Awami Action Committee in PoK, accused the Pakistan government and army of atrocities against local people. He compared them to witches bent on killing people.

Pakistani army accused of suppressing violence

Mir recalled Pakistani Army Chief General Asim Munir calling Hindus "infidels" before the Pahalgam attack and alleged that while Pakistan accuses others of atrocities, its own leaders are committing atrocities in PoK. He also alleged that the voices of ordinary people are being suppressed and the media is being silenced. He questioned the presence of the Pakistani Army, saying it is "killing the people they claim to represent."