PoK Erupts In Protest Over Rising Costs, Demand Grows To Scrap 12 Assembly Seats

Islamabad: The roots of the ongoing movement in PoK are directly linked to pockets. Initially people were demanding relief from inflation, shortage of cheap flour and electricity bills. There were daily problems like food and electricity, so people came to the streets. Joint Awami Action Committee i.e. JAAC gathered people with these demands. Gradually the movement grew bigger. Later it was not just a matter of flour and electricity. People also started demanding accountability of the administration and political reforms.

Why was action taken against JAAC?

The PoK government declared JAAC an illegal organisation. The administration says that the activities of the organisation were becoming a threat to law and order and the safety of the common people. After this, efforts to arrest the big leaders of JAAC intensified. According to media reports, even cash rewards have been announced for those giving information about some leaders. Meaning the government is in a strict mood.

What is the fight over 12 reserved seats?

The current tension is also flaring due to 12 reserved assembly seats. These seats have been kept for those who migrated from Jammu and Kashmir to other parts of Pakistan after 1947. JAAC alleges that these seats are used to maintain political influence. The protesters want change in this system. The administration is saying that this system is correct and it will not be changed.

Which cities were affected the most?

The effect of bandhs and demonstrations was visible in many areas including Muzaffarabad, Mirpur and Kotli. Markets remained closed, there was no brightness on the streets. Daily work came to a standstill. The deployment of police and paramilitary forces was increased to control the situation. Despite this, dharnas and demonstrations continued at different places.

What happened in the violent clashes?

At some places there were direct clashes between protesters and security forces. Many people have been injured in the clashes and some deaths have also been reported. After the violence, the administration has tightened security. Surveillance has been increased in sensitive areas. More checking is also being done on the roads.

Can any solution be found through talks?

The political leadership of PoK has appealed to all parties to exercise restraint. He says that delicate issues should not be resolved through confrontation but through dialogue and the Constitution. But the movement does not seem to be stopping yet. Everyone's eyes are on what turn the matter will take in the coming days.

Why is the discussion increasing at the international level?

The Kashmiri community settled abroad has also expressed concern over this issue. There have been demonstrations in manycountries,s including Britain. The protesters there have alleged arrests and use of force. Because of this, the issue of PoK is no longer limited to local politics only. This is gradually becoming a part of the international debate.