Tensions escalated in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) on Thursday as at least three policemen were killed and over 100 people were injured during ongoing protests against the Shehbaz Sharif government, Geo TV reported. The unrest began earlier this week after the Jammu and Kashmir Joint Awami Action Committee (JKJAAC) accused the Pakistan government of denying fundamental rights to the region’s residents.
The death toll in PoK has surpassed twelve, highlighting the brutal measures employed by Pakistani forces against their own people. Massive demonstrations led by the Awami Action Committee have forced a shutdown of markets, shops, local businesses, and transport services across PoK. Protesters have submitted a 38-point charter of demands, including the removal of 12 assembly seats reserved for Kashmiri refugees residing in Pakistan.
Sharif Government Offers Talks, Warns of Strict Action
Geo News reported that the Sharif government has offered negotiations with the JKJAAC amid the protests. Federal Minister Tariq Fazal Chaudhry stated that 90 percent of the committee’s demands have already been accepted. The PoK Chief Secretary has invited JKJAAC leaders for talks but has also warned them of strict action if the protests continue.
Leaders Accuse Pakistani Forces of Oppression, External Blame Narrative
The Jammu and Kashmir Joint Awami Action Committee (JKJAAC) has raised concerns over the use of excessive force against civilians during the protests. Shaukat Nawaz Mir, a senior leader of the Awami Action Committee in PoK, accused the Pakistani government and military of oppressing local residents, likening their actions to a witch determined to harm people. He added that the region, often referred to as “Azad Kashmir,” is not truly free.
Pro-Pakistani social media outlets have described the ongoing protests in PoK as orchestrated by external forces, rather than focusing on resolving issues with the affected communities. This approach of attributing internal unrest to outside actors is a recurring pattern.
Reports suggest that the Pakistani authorities are systematically attempting to suppress the population.